Thyroid examination and ultrasound
A non-invasive, safe and painless diagnostic method that provides a detailed view of the thyroid's structure using ultrasound waves.
What is a thyroid ultrasound and why does it matter?
A thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive, safe and painless diagnostic method that provides a detailed view of the thyroid's structure using ultrasound waves.
Its importance lies in its ability to detect abnormalities early — changes that may indicate disorders of thyroid function or the development of more serious conditions.
When do you need a thyroid ultrasound?
Respiratory and metabolic complaints develop gradually. We recommend a thyroid ultrasound if you recognise any of these signs:
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Feelings of fatigue, nervousness or mood changes
- Enlargement or tenderness of the front of the neck
- Problems swallowing or breathing
- A family history of thyroid disease
Short, painless — results immediately.
The examination is short and completely painless. The patient lies on their back while the doctor gently moves an ultrasound probe over the front of the neck. It takes about 15–20 minutes, and the results are available immediately afterwards.
Our polyclinic uses modern, high-resolution ultrasound equipment, enabling precise diagnostics and early detection of thyroid disorders.
We are among the few who, alongside the ultrasound, offer the option of simultaneous fine-needle aspiration (FNA).
What a thyroid ultrasound reveals.
A single examination gives detailed insight into the gland's structure and guides further work-up.
The size, number and structure of nodules, and distinguishing solid nodules from fluid-filled cysts.
Enlargement (goitre) or shrinkage of the thyroid and an assessment of its symmetry.
Tissue changes typical of inflammatory diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Characteristics that indicate the need for a fine-needle biopsy (FNA).
Laser treatment of thyroid nodules.
If the ultrasound reveals a benign nodule, minimally invasive laser treatment is also available — without surgery or a scar, with the gland's function preserved.
The most common thyroid ultrasound questions.
Does a thyroid ultrasound hurt?
No. The examination is completely painless and non-invasive — the doctor gently moves an ultrasound probe over the front of the neck.
How long does the examination take and when do I get the results?
The examination takes about 15–20 minutes, and the results are available immediately afterwards.
Do I need a referral or special preparation for a thyroid ultrasound?
No special preparation is needed. The examination is carried out without a referral and without waiting.
What can a thyroid ultrasound reveal?
Nodules and cysts, enlargement (goitre) or shrinkage of the gland, signs of inflammation, and changes that indicate the need for a fine-needle biopsy (FNA).
Is a thyroid ultrasound safe?
Yes. It uses sound waves without ionising radiation, so it is safe for all age groups, including pregnant women.
Dr. Zoran Kranjčec — thyroid care in Zadar
ENT specialist · subspecialist in head and neck plastic surgery · founder of Poliklinika Kranjčec
Thyroid ultrasound is part of head and neck otorhinolaryngology. Dr. Kranjčec performs the examination on a modern, high-resolution device, with the option of simultaneous fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and an interpretation of the findings immediately after the examination.
The goal is early detection of changes and a clear recommendation of next steps — without unnecessary tests, with an approach tailored to each patient.
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Zoran Kranjčec, ENT specialist · Content last reviewed:
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Leading specialists, the most modern equipment and the option of simultaneous FNA biopsy — precise and fast thyroid diagnostics. Tel. +385 23 324 881
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