Thyroid Ultrasound

A neck scan to examine the thyroid gland for swelling, nodules or cysts.

Book an Appointment More colour doppler ultrasound services

About this scan

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck that controls many of the body’s processes. A thyroid ultrasound shows its size and structure and looks for nodules (lumps), cysts or general enlargement (goitre).

This scan is often requested when a lump or swelling is felt in the neck, or when thyroid blood tests are abnormal. It is quick and painless, and nodules can be measured and compared on later scans if follow-up is needed.

What happens during the scan

A general overview — our team will guide you through each step of your examination.

1
Step 1: You lie on your back with a pillow under your shoulders so the neck is gently extended.
2
Step 2: Gel is applied to the front of the neck and the probe is moved over the thyroid.
3
Step 3: Any nodules are measured and nearby lymph nodes may be checked.
4
Step 4: The gel is wiped off and a report is prepared.

Preparation & tips

How to get ready for your scan, and what to expect afterwards.

If you have sudden or severe symptoms, please seek urgent medical care.

No special preparation is needed — you can eat and drink normally.
Avoid high-necked clothing and necklaces on the day of the scan.
Bring any previous thyroid scan reports and blood test results.