Fine needle aspiration (Procedure)

Question 1

Define fine needle aspiration

Answer 1

Fine needle aspiration = medical procedure used to withdraw fluid from lesions
• LA instilled to skin and subcut tissue
• Advance needle into lesion under image guidance
• Attach 20ml syringe to needle
• Aspirate syringe whilst moving to and fro within lesion

Question 2

Summarise the indications for fine needle aspiration

Answer 2

Biopsy
o Determine the nature of the lump

Assess treatment effectiveness

Sampling
o Chorionic villus sampling

Aspiration
o Of breast cysts and abscesses
o Under US guidance

Question 3

Identify the possible complications of fine needle aspiration

Answer 3

• Post-operative pain
• Bleeding and bruising
• Infection
• Pneumothorax