At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, we offer Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) and Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) procedures as minimally invasive techniques to diagnose various lesions and tumors in the body. These procedures involve the extraction of tissue or fluid samples using a thin needle for pathological examination, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Procedure:

FNAC/FNAB procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia. A thin needle is inserted directly into the suspected lesion or tumor guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT scan. Once the needle is in place, a syringe is used to aspirate cells or fluid from the target area. The obtained samples are then sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis.

Symptoms:

FNAC/FNAB may be recommended for patients with palpable masses, suspicious nodules, or abnormal findings on imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI. These procedures help differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, guiding further management decisions.

Diagnosis:

FNAC/FNAB is used to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including thyroid nodules, breast lumps, lymphadenopathy, and solid organ tumors. The procedure provides valuable information about the nature of the lesion, such as its cellular composition and whether it is cancerous or non-cancerous.

Post-Procedure Care:

After an FNAC/FNAB procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the needle insertion site. This typically resolves within a few days. Patients can resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure, although strenuous activities may be limited for a brief period. Our medical team provides detailed post-procedure instructions and is available to address any concerns or questions.

 

Is FNAC/FNAB a painful procedure?

FNAC/FNAB is generally well-tolerated and performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Most patients experience only mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure.

 

How long does an FNAC/FNAB procedure take?

The duration of an FNAC/FNAB procedure varies depending on the location and size of the lesion being sampled. On average, the procedure takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

 

Are there any risks associated with FNAC/FNAB?

FNAC/FNAB is considered a safe procedure with minimal risks. Potential complications, such as bleeding or infection, are rare but will be discussed with the patient before the procedure.

 

Will I receive the results of my FNAC/FNAB immediately?

The results of an FNAC/FNAB procedure may not be available immediately as the samples need to be analyzed by a pathologist. Typically, results are available within a few days, and your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during a follow-up appointment.