Thyroid Ultrasound Scan

Neck Scan|€170(Medical Card: €150)(Duration: 10-30 minutes)

Preparation:No special preparation required

Results:Radiologist report sent within 2-3 working days

What Is a Thyroid Ultrasound Scan?

A thyroid ultrasound is a simple, non-invasive scan that uses sound waves to create detailed images of your thyroid gland at the front of your neck. Your thyroid helps regulate things like energy levels and metabolism through hormone production.

Ultrasound is commonly used as a first-line imaging test for the thyroid because it provides excellent detail and involves no ionising radiation, making it safe for patients.

What We Assess With This Scan

Detect and measure thyroid nodules and cysts
Assess risk by looking for specific features that may help doctors decide if a nodule needs further testing
Check the thyroid's overall size, shape, and texture (e.g., looking for inflammation)
Assess surrounding neck lymph nodes when clinically indicated

This scan cannot assess:

Measure thyroid function (this requires blood tests to measure hormone levels)
Confirm cancer instantly — while it helps risk-stratify nodules, it cannot confirm a diagnosis on its own

Why You Might Need This Scan

Common symptoms:

•A lump or swelling in the front of your neck
•A feeling of pressure in your throat
•Difficulty swallowing
•Ongoing hoarseness or voice changes
•Neck tenderness or discomfort
•Follow-up for a known thyroid nodule or thyroid condition

Conditions we assess:

•Thyroid nodules (solid or fluid-filled)
•Goitre (enlarged thyroid)
•Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid)
•Thyroid or neck cysts
•Enlarged lymph nodes (when clinically indicated)

What to Expect

Before Your Scan

No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, and take your medications as normal.

Preparation checklist:

Wear clothing with an open or loose neckline
Remove necklaces or jewellery from the neck area
Arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time

During the Scan

You'll lie comfortably on an examination bed with your neck slightly extended. A small pillow may be placed under your shoulders to help positioning. A warm, water-based gel is applied to your neck to help the probe make good contact with your skin. The sonographer gently moves the handheld probe across your neck to capture images. You may feel light pressure, but the scan is painless. The scan typically takes 20-30 minutes.

After Your Scan

You can return to normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions or downtime.

Results & Next Steps

Your scan is reviewed by a consultant radiologist, who prepares a formal report. This report is sent to your referring doctor within 2–3 working days. Please note: our sonographers cannot provide verbal results on the day. This ensures your findings are fully reviewed and accurate.

Pricing

Price: €170 (Medical Card: €150)

Cancellation: We require 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

No — a thyroid ultrasound is painless. You may feel light pressure as the probe moves across your neck, and the gel can feel cool at first, but most people find it very comfortable.

The scan itself usually takes 15–20 minutes. Please arrive about 10 minutes early for check-in and any paperwork.

A GP referral is recommended because it helps ensure the report goes to the right person and provides useful medical history. However, if you don't have one, please contact us first — we can advise if this scan is appropriate for you.

Your images are reviewed by a consultant radiologist and a formal report is sent to your referring doctor within 2–3 working days. If you don't have a GP referral, we can send the report to your nominated doctor and you can request a copy for your records.

Ultrasound uses sound waves (not ionising radiation) and is considered very safe when performed by trained professionals.

Thyroid nodules are very common, and the vast majority are benign (non-cancerous). Your report will describe the nodule's size and features. Your GP will talk you through the results and advise if any follow-up is needed.

Yes — lymph nodes in the neck are routinely checked during a thyroid ultrasound if clinically indicated.

Coverage varies by insurer and your individual policy. Please check directly with your provider, as some plans may reimburse all, part, or none of the cost of outpatient ultrasound scans and consultant radiologist fees. Unfortunately, we can't guarantee insurance coverage, as this is determined by your insurer.

Ready to Book?

Available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.

Call 01 210 0232 Make an Appointment

Ready to Book Your Scan?

Our experienced team is available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.

Make an Appointment Call 01 210 0232