Thyroid ultrasound

Thyroid ultrasound assesses the size and structure of the thyroid gland and identifies nodules or other changes. At Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre in Gdańsk, scans are performed by radiologist Dr Ewa Kołyszko. The examination is noninvasive and uses sound waves.

What can a thyroid ultrasound show?

The thyroid lies at the front of the neck and produces hormones that help regulate metabolism. During the scan, the doctor assesses its dimensions, volume, tissue structure and any focal lesions. Blood flow and regional lymph nodes in the neck may also be examined.

An enlarged thyroid is called a goitre. Nodules can occur in an enlarged gland or one of normal size. Most thyroid nodules are benign in both women and men. The features of the nodule and the clinical circumstances determine whether further investigations are needed.

When might you need a thyroid ultrasound?

• You or your doctor notices a lump or swelling at the front of your neck.
• A thyroid lesion is found incidentally on another imaging examination.
• A previously identified nodule needs follow-up, as advised by your doctor.
• A suspected thyroid condition requires assessment of the gland's structure.
• Imaging follow-up is recommended after treatment for a thyroid condition.

A new or rapidly growing neck lump, persistent hoarseness or difficulty swallowing requires medical assessment. An abnormal TSH result alone does not automatically mean you need ultrasound scans at fixed intervals.

Thyroid ultrasound and hormone blood tests

Ultrasound shows the structure of the thyroid but cannot directly establish whether it produces the right amount of hormones. Thyroid function is assessed with blood tests, primarily TSH and, when indicated, free T4 and other tests. Ultrasound may support a diagnosis of thyroiditis, but the findings need to be interpreted alongside your history and laboratory results.

Does a thyroid nodule need a biopsy?

Not every nodule requires a biopsy. The doctor considers its size, ultrasound features, the appearance of nearby lymph nodes and individual risk factors. The EU-TIRADS classification helps organise the assessment of thyroid nodules and guide decisions about further investigations.

When indicated, an ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration is performed to obtain cells for cytological examination. In other cases, monitoring may be appropriate. Ultrasound alone cannot confirm or rule out every thyroid cancer.

Preparation and what happens during the scan

You do not need to fast or stop taking regular medicines. Bring previous ultrasound reports and images, blood test results and any biopsy results. Wear a loose neckline and remove necklaces.

You lie on an examination couch, usually with your head tilted slightly back. The doctor applies gel to your neck and moves the probe over the skin. We use a GE LOGIQ E10 ultrasound system. You can return to your usual activities afterwards.

Thyroid ultrasound in Gdańsk – appointments

Examinations are performed by Dr Ewa Kołyszko. Discuss the report with the doctor managing your care, who will advise whether you need further investigations or a follow-up scan.

Book through the Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre reception team. Call +48 58 719 10 25 or email kontakt@tartaczna2.pl.