Thyroid Biopsy Clinic
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The Columbia Thyroid Center offers a streamlined way of evaluating thyroid nodules. Our unique approach provides rapid on-site performance and evaluation of fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsies.
- Our highly efficient model reduces the typical weeks-long wait for FNA biopsies to a single day.
- Our on-site cytopathologist can offer immediate evaluation, eliminating the need for multiple visits.
- Because FNA biopsies can yield unclear results in certain circumstances, we offer additional genetic testing for accurate diagnosis.
If you’re seeking a diagnosis for thyroid nodules, we can help. Call (212) 305-0444 or complete our online request form.
What are Thyroid Nodules?
A thyroid nodule is a growth or lump of cells that forms within the thyroid gland. These nodules are relatively common and usually benign. However, 5-15% prove to be malignant. A fine needle biopsy is the most important step in making a diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan.
Typically, after a physician has identified a thyroid nodule by ultrasound, it can take weeks, if not months, for a patient to have their biopsy. However, the Biopsy Clinic at the Columbia Thyroid Center provides an efficient and well-organized single-day process that eliminates the need for multiple visits.
Who We Treat
Our clinic treats patients with thyroid nodules that ultrasound testing indicates may be cancerous. We also treat patients without a specific nodule who are experiencing symptoms like severe pain or a rapidly enlarging thyroid.
Services We Provide
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy, or FNA
- Molecular testing
- BRAF gene testing
- Afirma
Program Highlights
Reduced Wait Time
Typically, after a physician has identified a thyroid nodule by ultrasound, it can take weeks, if not months, for a patient to have their biopsy. The Biopsy Clinic at the Columbia Thyroid Center provides an efficient and well-organized single-day process that eliminates the need for multiple visits. Our experts perform the ultrasound, decide whether the findings require a biopsy, and, if needed, perform the biopsy.
No Repeat Visits
The team collaborates with an on-site cytopathologist (a pathology specialist who studies and diagnoses disease at the cellular level) that can determine if an adequate sample was obtained or if another sample is needed. This immediate feedback can reduce the number of passes with the biopsy needle and save people the possibility of repeat visits to obtain more samples. Results are typically available in 2-3 days.
Additional Testing for Better Diagnosis
15-30% of fine needle aspirations yield indeterminate cytologic findings. Additional molecular testing of these cytologic specimens can help guide decision making for patients with indeterminate nodules. Currently, the Columbia Thyroid Biopsy Program offers BRAF gene testing and Afirma®. BRAF is a gene mutation found in 44% of all papillary thyroid cancers. Afirma is a gene expression classifier test.
Our Team
Jennifer Kuo, MD
Endocrine Surgeon
Eric J. Kuo, MD
Endocrine Surgeon
Our Locations
Manhattan Office
Herbert Irving Pavilion, 8th Floor
161 Fort Washington Avenue
New York, NY 10032
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Westchester Offices
NewYork-Presbyterian The One
1111 Westchester Ave
White Plains, NY 10604
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155 White Plains Road
Tarrytown, NY 10591
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New Jersey Office
300 Frank W Burr Blvd
Suite 130
Teaneck, NJ 07666
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Make an Appointment
If you’re seeking a diagnosis for thyroid nodules, we can help. Call (212) 305-0444 or complete our online request form. We accept a number of insurance plans, and our team can help confirm your coverage.