Thyroid Gland Ultrasound

Last updated on May 27th, 2022 at 12:33 pm

Thyroid gland ultrasound is an imaging procedure that produces images of the thyroid gland. A thyroid gland is an organ that produces and stores various hormones that are important for the regulation of metabolisms. Nuclear medicine is a type of method that co-occurs with a thyroid gland scan. In nuclear medicine, a radioactive material such as iodine is used to detect any abnormalities in the thyroid. The thyroid gland absorbs the iodine which is studied using a gamma camera or other scanners. This radioactive iodine is usually given in the form of pills, injections, or liquid. The radioactive iodine passes through urination.

There are no known dangers associated with a thyroid scan. The ingested iodine is small in amount and the radioactive emission is safe.

Why is Thyroid Gland Ultrasound done?

• Screening for the normal function of the thyroid gland.
• Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland.
• Goiter is a condition when there is an enlargement of the thyroid gland.
• Lumps, unwanted growth in the thyroid gland.
• Thyroid cancer
• Hyperthyroidism is a condition when the thyroid is overacting or overperforming.
• Hypothyroidism is a condition when the thyroid is underacting or underperforming.

Who does Thyroid Gland Ultrasound?

Like any other ultrasound, only a certified radiologist can perform Thyroid Gland Ultrasound.

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For appointment and inquiries, please call Clinic One at 015400400 | 9863393960 or email us at info@clinicone.com.np

Preparation before the Thyroid Scan:

• Discussion with the doctor about the discontinuation of different medications such as thyroid medicine is necessary.
• Heart medication and medication with iodine in it.
• Foods containing iodine must not be eaten one week prior to the scan.
• Other drugs which need to be discontinued must be thoroughly discussed with the doctor. These drugs may include cough syrups, multivitamins, antihistamines, and others.
• A six-week gap should be maintained between two scans that have used radioactive iodine.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should discuss first with the doctor before performing the thyroid scan.

What to expect during the scan?

• You will receive the radioactive iodine in the form of a pill, injection, or liquid.
• You will be asked to wait for the iodine to get absorbed by the thyroid gland.
• You will be asked to lay down on the table. 
• Different images will be taken from different angles with the help of a gamma camera or a scanner.
• The scan usually takes up to 30 minutes.

Results:

After the test is completed, the radiologist or the doctor will have a look at the images and discuss the results with you. Any additional test or screening may be required depending upon the result.