Thyroid ultrasound

A parathyroid and thyroid ultrasound is an imaging assessment that helps examine the thyroid and parathyroid glands. A thyroid ultrasound is useful in determining the dimension and form of the thyroid gland, but not its function. In case of a parathyroid and thyroid ultrasound, a tiny handheld device known as the transducer is passed backward and forward over the neck to bring into being an image of the thyroid gland and parathyroid glands.

A parathyroid and thyroid ultrasound is undertaken to examine lumps that one an feel on the thyroid gland. The thyroid ultrasound can also be performed to assess lumps that are discovered at some stage in a thyroid scan. A thyroid ultrasound can typically differentiate among a solid thyroid gland growth and an uncomplicated fluid-filled sac (cyst). It also helps decide whether the thyroid gland is inflamed. A thyroid ultrasound is useful in examining the size of the thyroid gland when treating a thyroid condition.

Abnormal parathyroid glands may be sore and is noticeable by thyroid ultrasound.
A parathyroid and thyroid ultrasound is generally conducted by a radiologist or an ultrasound technologist at an ultrasound room in a physician's office or hospital.

During a thyroid ultrasound, you could be asked to undress above the waist, after this you would be required to drape a paper or cloth that provides a cover around your shoulders. During your thyroid ultrasound remove all jewelry from near your neck region.

In a thyroid ultrasound, you are required to lie on your back on a high table. During this time your neck is stretched out and a pillow is placed under your shoulders. Special gel is applied on your neck. This helps perk up the passage of the sound waves because they do not pass straightforwardly through air. At times, a small water-filled bag or gelatin sponge is positioned over the throat, this helps conduct the sound waves. The transducer is pressed against your neck or the water-filled bag or gelatin sponge, after which it is moved to and fro over the neck. During this, an image of the thyroid gland and surrounding tissue is shown on a video monitor. Through the ultrasound, you may be told to turn your head away from the side that is being. This ensures that the jawbone does not come in the way.

A thyroid ultrasound spans about 30 minutes. In most instances, you would be asked to wait for the radiologist to evaluate the information.