Thyroid Fine Needle Biopsy and Impact on Pain and Diagnostic Adequacy

The Effect of Using Different Needle Sizes on Patient Comfort and Pain During the Sonographically Guided Fine Needle Biopsy of Thyroid Nodules: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized study compares patient pain and comfort during ultrasound-guided thyroid fine needle biopsy using 21-gauge versus 27-gauge needles. Patients with thyroid nodules were randomly assigned to one of two needle sizes. Pain intensity was measured immediately after the procedure using a 0-100 Visual Analog Scale. The study was conducted at İzmir Atatürk Training and Research Hospital between January 2024 and March 2024. The aim is to determine which needle size causes less pain and better patient comfort during the biopsy procedure.

This prospective, randomized, single-blind clinical trial compares 21-gauge and 27-gauge needles for ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy of thyroid nodules. Participants are randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio. The study aims to evaluate whether needle gauge affects patient pain and biopsy performance. Detailed eligibility criteria, outcome measures, and statistical analyses are provided in their respective sections.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Thyroid nodules requiring ultrasound-guided FNB with a maximum diameter ≥10 mm,
• Intraglandular nodules with relatively central location within the thyroid gland

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patient refusal to provide informed consent,
• History of bleeding tendency or use of anticoagulant medication,
• Substernal or subclavicular localization of the lesion in cases of large goiter.