FNAC Test & Image-Guided Biopsy

FNAC / Drainage procedures

Procedures guided by imaging, like biopsies, FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) and draining fluids, are minimally invasive methods employed to accurately diagnose and manage various health issues. These procedures use real-time imaging—like ultrasound or CT scans—to precisely target the region of interest, thereby ensuring enhanced safety, greater precision and reduced patient discomfort.

Whether acquiring tissue samples for diagnosis or draining fluids, such as abscesses or cysts, imaging-guided interventions offer a high level of accuracy, with faster recovery compared to traditional surgical approaches. These techniques are crucial for early detection and treatment planning. They are carried out by skilled radiologists in sterile, controlled settings to achieve the best results for the patient.

FNAC Test & Image-Guided Biopsy in Chennai

Finding a lump, a swelling, or an abnormal growth is frightening — and the most important thing in that moment is getting a clear, accurate answer as quickly as possible. At Scans World, our FNAC, image-guided biopsy and drainage procedures are designed to do exactly that — providing a precise tissue diagnosis without the need for major surgery, performed by experienced radiologists under real-time imaging guidance.

These minimally invasive procedures are available at our Aminjikarai, Nandanam (Chamiers Road), Nanganallur and Vellore centres — in a fully sterile, controlled environment with same-day or 24–48 hour reports.

Why Choose Scans World for FNAC & Biopsy in Chennai

Imaging-guided precision

Every procedure guided by real-time ultrasound or CT — needle placed with exact accuracy.

Expert interventional radiologists

Performed by experienced radiologists — specialist skill for complex or deep-seated lesions.

Minimally invasive

No major incisions, no general anaesthesia for most procedures. Single outpatient visit.

Fast reports

FNAC: 24–48 hours. Biopsy histopathology: 3–5 working days. Urgent cases prioritised.

4 centres

Aminjikarai, Nandanam, Nanganallur and Vellore.

Sterile, controlled environment

All procedures under strict sterile conditions.

Procedures available at Scans World

FNAC

Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology

An ultrasound is used to guide a very fine needle to take a small sample of cells from a lump or abnormal tissue. Cytopathologist evaluates to determine if benign or malignant.

5-10 min Report: 24-48 hr

IMAGE-GUIDED BIOPSY

Core Needle / Tru-cut

A larger needle takes a small core of tissue from a deep lesion under ultrasound or CT control. Provides a histopathology sample for detailed tissue analysis.

15–30 min Report: 3–5 days

IMAGE-GUIDED DRAINAGE

Cyst / Abscess / Effusion

A needle or catheter is guided into a fluid collection for safe drainage with ultrasound or CT guidance. Avoids open surgery. Fluid can be sent for lab analysis.

20–45 min Same-day fluid analysis

What conditions do these procedures diagnose & treat?

FNAC & BIOPSY DETECTS

Breast lumps — benign vs malignant
Thyroid nodules — benign cysts vs cancer
Lymph node enlargement — infection vs lymphoma
Salivary gland swellings
Soft tissue masses — lipoma, sarcoma
Liver lesions — cysts, HCC, metastasis
Lung nodules — infection vs malignancy
Kidney & adrenal masses
Pancreatic lesions
Bone lesions — infection vs tumour

DRAINAGE TREATS

Abscesses — liver, breast, soft tissue
Cysts — ovarian, renal, hepatic
Pleural effusion — fluid around lungs
Ascites — abdominal fluid
Pericardial effusion — fluid around heart
Post-surgical fluid collections
Joint effusions, Haematomas

FNAC vs Biopsy — Which one do you need?

FNAC

Best for superficial lumps (breast, thyroid, lymph nodes). Quick, virtually painless, minimal risk. Provides cell-level diagnosis.

Core Biopsy

Better for deep lesions or when tissue architecture is needed (liver, lung, kidney, bone). More tissue sample — allows detailed histopathology.

Image-guided Drainage

When fluid collections need to be drained for treatment or analysis. Done in the same setting as FNAC or biopsy if needed.

NOTE: At Scans World, our radiologist will assess your imaging and recommend the most appropriate procedure before proceeding.

What to expect — before, during & after

BEFORE THE PROCEDURE: Inform our team if you are on blood-thinning medications (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel) — you may need to pause them a few days before. If sedation is planned, fast for 4–6 hours. Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Bring any previous imaging reports (ultrasound, CT, MRI) of the lesion.

DURING THE PROCEDURE: You will lie comfortably on the procedure table. The skin is cleaned and local anaesthetic applied. The radiologist then uses ultrasound or CT in real time to guide the needle to the target. For FNAC: 5–10 minutes. For core biopsy: 15–30 minutes.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE: A small dressing is applied. Most patients rest for 15–30 minutes before going home. Mild soreness at the site is normal for 1–2 days. You can return to normal light activities the same day. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.

How to book your appointment

Call or WhatsApp

+91 96269 59999

Bring Imaging

Bring previous ultrasound, CT or MRI reports of the lesion

Procedure

Guided by expert radiologist — 5 to 45 mins depending on type

Get Report

FNAC: 24–48 hrs | Biopsy: 3–5 working days

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is FNAC and what does it stand for?

FNAC means Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology. It is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure where a thin needle is used to get a small sample of cells from a lump or abnormal tissue. The sample is then examined under a microscope for signs of infections, cysts or cancerous cells.

2. What is Image-Guided Biopsy?

Image Guided Biopsy is a procedure that uses real-time imaging (ultrasound or CT scan) to direct a needle to the precise location of an abnormal tissue or lump in order to obtain a sample for laboratory analysis. It's more accurate and less uncomfortable than the traditional surgical biopsy.

3. What conditions can FNAC detect?

FNAC can diagnose benign (non-cancerous) cysts, abscesses, lymph node enlargements, thyroid nodules, breast lumps, salivary gland swellings and early stage cancerous cells. It is one of the most accurate initial tests for investigating unexplained lumps in the body.

4. How is FNAC performed at Scans World?

This is done by a radiologist or a trained specialist. Ultrasound imaging is used to guide a fine, thin needle into the lump or swelling and a small sample of cells is gently drawn out. The procedure is done under sterile conditions and with minimal pain and takes just a few minutes.

5. What is an Image-Guided Drainage Procedure?

Image guided drainage procedure: This procedure uses real-time imaging with ultrasound or CT to safely and accurately insert a needle or small catheter into a fluid collection such as an abscess, cyst or effusion to drain the fluid. This avoids open surgery and allows faster recovery.

6. How is an Image-Guided Drainage Procedure different from surgery?

Image-guided drainage is a minimally invasive procedure, as opposed to traditional surgery. It does not require large incisions, causes less pain, has a lower risk of complications and allows patients to recover much faster. Most procedures are done in one outpatient visit.

7. Which imaging technique is used to guide FNAC and biopsy at Scans World?

Scans World performs FNAC and biopsy procedures under real time ultrasound or CT scanning depending on the location and depth of the lesion. This allows the needle to be accurately and safely delivered to the target location.

8. How should I prepare for an FNAC or Image-Guided Biopsy?

Tell your doctor if you are taking any blood-thinning drugs – you might need to stop taking them before the procedure. If sedation is planned, avoid eating or drinking for a few hours. On the day of your procedure, wear loose, comfortable clothing.

9. How long does it take to get the FNAC report at Scans World?

Scans World FNAC reports normally take 24-48 hours depending on the complexity of the analysis. Our pathologists and radiologists work together to ensure your results are accurate and on time.

10. Which is the best center for FNAC and Image-Guided Biopsy in Chennai?

Scans World is a trusted diagnostic center in Chennai offering image guided FNAC, Biopsy and Drainage procedures with advanced ultrasound and CT guidance, experienced Radiologists and a fully sterile safe environment. Branches at Aminjikarai, Nandanam (Chamiers Road) and Nanganallur.