Risk-adapted trajectory selection for ultrasound-guided thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy: a multicenter study of in-plane and out-of-plane approaches - Scorecard - MDSpire

Risk-adapted trajectory selection for ultrasound-guided thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy: a multicenter study of in-plane and out-of-plane approaches

  • By

  • Xiubin Tang

  • Wenjin Lin

  • Youhai Wu

  • Ming Chen

  • Xiao Yang

  • July 17, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Evaluation of Needle Approach Strategies in Ultrasound-Guided Thyroid Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: A Multicenter Analysis of In-Plane and Out-of-Plane Techniques

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionThyroid Nodule Evaluation
Key MechanismsComparison of in-plane and out-of-plane needle approaches in ultrasound-guided FNAB.
Target PopulationPatients with thyroid nodules requiring biopsy.
Care SettingMulticenter tertiary hospitals

Key Highlights

  • In-plane approach yielded higher diagnostic adequacy (98.3%) compared to out-of-plane (85.7%).
  • Significant adjusted odds ratios for diagnostic adequacy favoring in-plane approach.
  • Satisfactory needle-tip visualization was more frequent with in-plane approach (97.2% vs. 63.6%).
  • Immediate hematoma rates did not significantly differ between approaches.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Utilize ultrasound-guided FNAB for thyroid nodule evaluation.

Management

  • Consider risk-adapted trajectory selection based on nodule size and anatomical factors.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor for immediate hematoma as a procedural safety endpoint.

Risks

  • Nondiagnostic cytology may lead to repeat procedures and delayed management.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with thyroid nodules undergoing FNAB.

In-plane approach may enhance diagnostic adequacy without increasing hematoma risk.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Assess nodule size and anatomical relationships when selecting needle approach.
  • Ensure reliable needle-tip visualization during FNAB procedures.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Risk-adapted trajectory selection for ultrasound-guided thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy: a multicenter study of in-plane and out-of-plane approaches

  • by Xiubin Tang, Wenjin Lin, Youhai Wu, Ming Chen, Xiao Yang

  • July 17, 2026

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