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Waiting for Fine Needle Aspiration in Neck

Skyflyer84
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Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some info on find needle aspiration and why it usually needs to be done. 
I had a CT scan on my neck at end of Oct.19 and it took 4 weeks to get an appointment scheduled for 7th Jan.19, with the consultant at the outpatients centre. I even rang the ENT secretary twice to find out about my results and all she told me was that it had been marked as non-urgent. So I have been thinking it's probably nothing.
However yesterday (nearly 8 weeks since the CT scan) I received another letter for 8th Jan.19 booking me in for the fine needle aspiration on my neck. I still have no idea why I need it, and also this procedure only seems to be carried out if there is a cause for concern. So why would they tell me I was marked as non-urgent? I'm so anxious, worried and confused. Can anyone offer any ideas about the NHS time frames?

  • Hi Skyflyer and welcome to the forum.

    Sometimes numerous tests need to be carried out so the doctors have all the information they need to figure out what's going on so this could be one of the reasons why you're having this done but only they can tell you more.

    We have some general information about fine needle aspiration on our website just here but do feel free to give our cancer nurses a call if you'd like to talk things through with them. They will be available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday (except today, tomorrow, Boxing Day and New Year's Day) between 9a.m - 5p.m.

    Waiting times can differ depending on what part of the country you're in and how busy the department carrying out your test is so it would be best to get in touch with them to find out.

    I know it's difficult when you have worries on your mind and tests coming up, but if you can, try and put this to one side for the moment and enjoy the festive period that is now upon us as it will help to take your mind off this, even if it's just for a little while.

    Kind regards, 

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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