Fine Needle Aspiration Procedures
A less invasive alternative.
When you have a lump or lesion, your doctor may need to get samples of its cells in order to determine its nature and cause. One less-invasive method of getting those cell samples is called a fine needle aspiration.
Fine needle aspirations are a safer and less traumatic alternative to biopsies requiring surgery. In a fine needle aspiration, a needle is inserted into the mass that is in question. A slight suction is applied, causing some cells to be drawn out of the mass. Those cells can then be immediately examined.
At URMC Labs, all aspects of your fine needle aspiration will be managed by a pathologist specially trained in these techniques. Examination of your cells will be performed through various methods such as immunucytochemistry or electron microscopy. Your diagnosis is typically available within 15 minutes.
Fine needle aspiration is not only less invasive. It is also less expensive, reduces the risk of complications and provide faster recovery times.
Our pathologists are available to perform fine needle aspirations Monday through Friday, from 8AM to 5PM, and at other times by special arrangement. A clinic room is available daily for outpatient referral. For inpatients, a pathologist may come directly to the patient's room.
In order to schedule a fine needle aspiration procedure, please call the Cytopathology Office at 585-275-5656 during regular working hours. Patient brochures regarding the procedure are available in clinicians' offices and may also be requested from the Cytopathology Laboratory.
For any questions regarding this procedure, please call Ellen Giampoli, M.D. at (585) 275-2934.
