No. You can book directly. If your GP or specialist has asked for this scan, bring their letter so the sonographer knows what to focus on.

No, but bring any previous reports so we can compare nodules.

A rapidly growing lump or difficulty breathing or swallowing needs prompt medical advice from your GP or NHS 111.

Thyroid SWE is an advanced ultrasound technology that measures the stiffness of thyroid tissues. It uses sound waves to generate shear waves within the gland, with the speed of these waves indicating tissue stiffness. This method helps in distinguishing between benign and malignant thyroid nodules.

While traditional ultrasound focuses on visual characteristics of thyroid nodules, such as size and shape, SWE provides quantitative data on tissue stiffness. This additional information can improve the accuracy of diagnosing thyroid conditions by identifying nodules that are potentially cancerous due to their stiffness.

Thyroid SWE is particularly beneficial for individuals with thyroid nodules where malignancy cannot be easily ruled out through conventional ultrasound and clinical assessment. It’s also useful for patients with indeterminate fine-needle aspiration biopsy results, offering further insights that might influence the management plan.

No, Thyroid SWE is a non-invasive and painless procedure. It is performed as part of a standard ultrasound examination without the need for any special preparations or interventions, making it a comfortable experience for patients.

While Thyroid SWE can significantly enhance the accuracy of Thyroid lesion characterization, it does not replace the need for a biopsy in all cases. Biopsy remains the definitive method for diagnosing Thyroid cancer. However, SWE can help reduce unnecessary biopsies by better distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions or inversely can draw the attention of the clinician to the breast lesion when the tissue is stiffer while the traditional ultrasound features look benign.

The procedure typically takes only a few minutes longer than a conventional ultrasound scan. The entire process, including preparation and examination, usually lasts less than 20 minutes, providing immediate results for analysis.

No specific preparation is required for Thyroid SWE. Patients can eat, drink, and take medications as usual. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the neck area.

Thyroid SWE is a safe and non-invasive procedure with no known risks or side effects. It does not involve radiation exposure or any invasive techniques, making it suitable for repeated use as necessary.

Thyroid SWE has shown high accuracy in differentiating between benign and malignant thyroid nodules, especially when combined with conventional ultrasound findings. However, its accuracy can be influenced by various factors, including the nodule’s size and location, as well as the operator’s experience.

Use the booking form on this page and follow its Next buttons. Choose your scan option and appointment time, enter the requested details, then review the price before completing the booking.