A collaborative radiologist-sonographer ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration service in the head and neck: Experience from a tertiary centre.

Abstract

Background: Fine-needle aspiration is a recommended, minimally invasive test that may be performed by radiologists and advanced practice sonographers to meet increasing service demands. Adequacy rates vary significantly in the published literature.

Purpose: To assess the adequacy rate of ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration in head and neck lesions between operator groups: radiologists and sonographers. Other factors that may potentially affect adequacy rates such as the number of passes, use of local anaesthetic, sample tissue type and needle gauge have also been investigated.

Materials and methods: A retrospective review of the local radiology reporting system of all ultrasound-guided head and neck fine needle aspiration samples over a 3-year period was undertaken. Correlation was made with the final cytology report to assess for sample adequacy.

Results: In total, 927 fine needle aspiration samples were included. Of these, 331 (35.7%) were taken by radiologists, and 596 (64.3%) were taken by sonographers. Both groups achieved similar adequacy rates (~84%), and no statistical difference was seen between operator type and adequacy rate.

Conclusion: Our study provides a good example of a cohesive department where both radiologists and sonographers contribute to a consistent and equitable service.