Thyroid Biopsy in Metro Atlanta, GA

Worried about a thyroid nodule or unexplained neck swelling? At Northwest ENT & Allergy Center, our team offers expert evaluation and thyroid biopsies to get you answers—fast. Led by Dr. Shatul L. Parikh, Director of the Northwest Thyroid Center and a recognized leader in thyroid care, our team uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques like ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) to deliver accurate thyroid biopsy results with minimal discomfort.

An ultrasound biopsy at Northwest ENT is far more cost effective than doing it at a hospital or imaging center. Choosing us for your thyroid biopsy means you receive top-tier expertise and a more affordable option— without sacrificing quality or comfort.

What Is a Thyroid Biopsy?

A thyroid nodule biopsy, also known as a fine-needle aspiration (FNA), is a safe, minimally invasive procedure used to determine whether a thyroid nodule is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). This essential diagnostic testing tool provides clarity and enables personalized treatment planning.

What Can a Thyroid Biopsy Detect?

A thyroid needle biopsy helps determine whether a thyroid nodule is benign or potentially cancerous. Conditions that can be identified through biopsy include:

Benign nodules: Most thyroid nodules are noncancerous and require only monitoring.
Thyroid cancer: A biopsy can detect common types such as papillary, follicular, medullary, or anaplastic thyroid carcinoma.
Suspicious or atypical cells: In some cases, the results may be inconclusive, prompting further evaluation or repeat biopsy.
Thyroid cysts: Fluid-filled nodules may also be confirmed during biopsy and monitored or treated as needed.

This simple test provides critical information that guides your treatment plan and helps avoid unnecessary surgery when nodules are benign.

When Is a Thyroid Biopsy Needed?

Thyroid nodules are extremely common, and most are benign. But your ENT specialist may recommend a biopsy if:

A nodule is larger than 1 cm
Ultrasound imaging shows suspicious features
There’s a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or genetic mutations
You have symptoms like difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a visible lump

An FNA thyroid biopsy helps determine whether surgery or other treatments are necessary.

Meet Dr. Shatul L. Parikh, M.D.

Director, Northwest Thyroid Center

is one of the region’s most experienced ENT surgeons in ultrasound-guided thyroid biopsy and thyroid nodule evaluation. A Georgia native trained at Emory University and the Medical College of Georgia, he has performed thousands of thyroid procedures throughout his career.

As a leader in the field and former President of the Metro Atlanta Society for Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Parikh is trusted by patients and referring physicians across Georgia for his precision, skill, and commitment to thyroid health. Book your thyroid biopsy appointment with Dr. Parikh today.

Why Choose Northwest ENT for Thyroid Biopsy?

With over 5,000 successful thyroid nodule biopsies, our team of thyroid doctors has the experience to deliver precise, reliable results. Here’s what set us apart:

Expert Leadership: Dr. Shatul L. Parikh is one of Georgia’s most experienced thyroid surgeons, with advanced training from Emory University and decades of experience in thyroid and parathyroid disorders.
Advanced Techniques: Our use of ultrasound imaging and biopsy techniques ensures accuracy and minimizes discomfort.
Integrated Thyroid Care: As part of the Northwest Thyroid Center, we offer comprehensive diagnosis, thyroid disease treatment, and monitoring—all under one roof.

How Is a Thyroid Biopsy Done?

At our Atlanta-area clinics, thyroid biopsies are done as outpatient procedures and usually take less than 30 minutes. Here’s what to expect:

Initial Consultation and Ultrasound: During your visit, we’ll evaluate your thyroid using high-resolution ultrasound imaging to assess the size and characteristics of the nodule.
Fine Needle Aspiration Procedure (FNA): A thin, specialized needle is gently inserted into the thyroid nodule to collect a small sample of cells. The thyroid biopsy procedure typically takes 10–20 minutes, requires only local anesthesia, and is minimally invasive.
Pathology Review and Results: The collected sample is sent to our pathology experts for analysis. Results are usually available within a few days, and we’ll review them with you to determine the next steps and conduct a risk analysis if needed.

Appointments for Thyroid Biopsy in Metro Atlanta

At Northwest ENT, we specialize in thyroid needle biopsy to accurately diagnose thyroid conditions. With six convenient locations in the Metro Atlanta area, we are here to help you get the answers you need.

Book an appointment with a thyroid biopsy specialist today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thyroid Biopsy

What Happens After the Biopsy?

Biopsy results typically return within a few days. Your thyroid doctor in Atlanta will discuss whether:

The nodule is benign and can be monitored
Results are inconclusive, and repeat biopsy or further testing is needed
The nodule is suspicious or cancerous, and treatment such as thyroid surgery is recommended

Our team will walk you through your results and treatment options in plain language—so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Do You Need to Be Put to Sleep for a Thyroid Biopsy?

No, you do not need to be put to sleep for a thyroid ultrasound biopsy. The procedure is typically done using local anesthetic, meaning the area is numbed but you remain awake. Most patients feel only slight pressure or mild discomfort during the fine needle biopsy thyroid. It’s a quick, outpatient procedure, and you can go home shortly afterward.

Is a Thyroid Biopsy Painful?

Most patients find a FNA biopsy to be minimally painful. The thyroid biopsy procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so the area is numbed before the needle is inserted. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort, but it typically lasts only a few seconds. After the procedure, any discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Does ENT Do Thyroid Biopsy?

Yes, ENT specialists (ear, nose, and throat doctors) are highly trained to perform thyroid biopsies. At Northwest ENT, our experienced doctors, led by Dr. Shatul L. Parikh, specialize in ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration thyroid biopsy to safely and accurately assess thyroid nodules.

Thyroid Biopsy in Metro Atlanta