Neck Ultrasound

What is a neck ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a safe and painless diagnostic method that creates images of the inside of the body using sound waves. This harmless technique utilizes a small ultrasound probe with a frequency between 10-15 MHz and gel to expose the patient’s body to high-frequency sound waves. The exam helps in detecting various conditions and issues, including swelling, tumors, cysts, and inflammation. Neck ultrasound evaluates palpable masses in the neck, salivary glands, thyroid gland, and lymph nodes in the neck.

When should a neck ultrasound be performed?

A neck ultrasound is typically conducted when a patient experiences symptoms such as neck pain, swelling, changes in the throat, or difficulty swallowing. The exam can also be used to monitor the condition of the patient after neck surgery or to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

Reasons for performing a neck ultrasound include:

Symptoms in the neck area: If a patient has symptoms like swelling, pain, lumps, or difficulty swallowing, a neck ultrasound may be recommended by a doctor.

Thyroid evaluation: Ultrasound is often used to assess the thyroid gland, especially if the patient has nodules or abnormalities in that area.

Thyroid evaluation: Ultrasound is often used to assess the thyroid gland, especially if the patient has nodules or abnormalities in that area.

Routine preventive check: It can also be performed as part of a routine preventive check for individuals at higher risk of thyroid disease.

The decision to perform a neck ultrasound is made by a doctor after examining and assessing the patient’s symptoms.

Who should have a neck ultrasound?

Neck ultrasound is suitable for all patients who have noticed lumps in the neck, inflammation, a sensation of a lump in the throat, difficulty breathing or lack of air in the neck area, thyroid problems, salivary gland issues, or lymph node concerns.

Examples of when a neck ultrasound may be recommended:

Symptoms in the neck area: For individuals with swelling, lumps, pain, or other symptoms in the head and neck region.

Thyroid issues: For those with known thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid diseases, or swelling and pain in the thyroid area.

Cancer risk: For individuals at higher risk of head and neck cancer, such as smokers, those with excessive alcohol consumption, or those exposed to certain chemicals or radiation.

Monitoring condition after therapy: For individuals treated for cancer or other diseases in the head and neck area, to track the effectiveness of the therapy or to detect early recurrence of the disease.

Preventive Screening: Sometimes recommended as a preventive measure for individuals with a family history of thyroid disease or personal history of autoimmune or lymphoproliferative diseases.

The decision to undergo a neck ultrasound is made by the doctor based on the patient’s symptoms and medical history.

Preparation for neck ultrasound

Preparation for a neck ultrasound is generally straightforward and does not require special measures. However, following these general guidelines can ensure the best possible experience during the exam:

• Inform your doctor about medications: Notify your doctor of any medications you are taking, especially those for thyroid regulation, before the ultrasound.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy removal if needed. Generally, for a neck ultrasound, you do not need to remove all clothing as long as the upper part has a large enough neckline or fastening. Remove any jewelry like necklaces or dangling earrings before the exam. Generally, for a neck ultrasound, you do not need to remove all clothing as long as the upper part has a large enough neckline or fastening. Remove any jewelry like necklaces or dangling earrings before the exam.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions: If your doctor has given specific instructions or guidelines for preparing for the neck ultrasound, follow them closely to ensure the best results.
• Bring necessary documents: Prepare any required documents and test results requested by your doctor, such as blood tests or previous ultrasound reports.

Always consult your doctor about any special instructions or guidelines that may apply to your case.

How does a neck ultrasound work?

A neck ultrasound is a non-invasive exam usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning it does not require hospital admission. Here is an overview of what to expect during the procedure:

• Preparation: Before the exam, the medical professional will ask you to lie on your back or turn your head to the side. They will apply gel to the area of the neck being examined and then begin using the ultrasound probe on that area.
• Ultrasound probe: The ultrasound probe is a device used to perform the exam. The doctor will apply gel to the neck area to reduce resistance and improve the conductivity of the sound waves.
• Examination: During the exam, the medical professional will move the ultrasound probe to different locations around the neck to capture images of your neck vessels, thyroid, lymph nodes, and other tissues. You may feel mild pressure where the probe is applied.
• Image capture: Images are displayed in real-time on a computer screen, allowing the doctor to examine your neck area and assess its condition. The imaging typically takes 15-30 minutes.
• Post-examination: After the exam, the medical professional will ask you to wipe off the gel from your neck and provide instructions for the next steps. Results are usually available within a few days.

Cytology or Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB)

If the doctor finds it necessary to define the nature of a change in the thyroid, salivary glands, or neck more precisely, they may recommend a fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) under ultrasound guidance. The obtained material is analyzed by a clinical cytologist. Sometimes, the aspirated material needs further microbiological, molecular analysis, or immunophenotyping, depending on the disease.

This is a nearly painless procedure lasting only 30-40 seconds, and it is crucial for diagnosing conditions. If the patient is a child, has special needs, or other particular conditions, the procedure can be performed under short sedation with the assistance of an anesthesiologist at our clinic.

Cost of neck ultrasound

You can check the current price list of the Sinteza Polyclinic for more information on the cost of the procedure, contact us by phone at +385 1 5005 970 or via email at info@sinteza.hr for more information. For direct appointment reservations, click on the link.

Service location