title: Fine-needle aspiration biopsy of thyroid nodules. A diagnostic method that minimizes the need for surgery.
abstract: Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is the most accurate and cost-effective method of evaluating thyroid nodules. When an experienced endocrinologist and cytopathologist are available, aspiration biopsy is the diagnostic procedure of choice. In our experience at Straub Clinic and Hospital, Honolulu, it has more than halved the number of operations for suspected thyroid cancer.
mesh_terms: D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D006801:Humans; D013959:Thyroid Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D013961:Thyroid Gland / Q000473:pathology; D013964:Thyroid Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology