La ecografía de tiroides realizada por profesionales no radiólogos: abordaje sistemático de la exploración, realización e interpretación

Systematic approach, procedure and interpretation

Abstract

Introduction:  In the past few years, many non-radiologist physicians have developed interest in thyroid ultrasonography (US). In this paper, as diagnostic imaging experts, we would like to assess the starting points that these non-radiologists should bear  in mind before facing the challenge of including US in their daily clinical practice. Material and methods: We made systematic narrative review with bibliographic research on Pubmed. We consulted documents on websites from medical imaging societies such as Sociedad Española de Ultrasonidos (SEUS) and the American College of  Radiology. Discussion: We've treated some key topics. First, we've described how the US process should be carried out in a broader sense. Then, we've address some basic technical aspects that should be mastered. Finally, we've focussed on imaging interpretation. We've described a systematic approach of the thyroid gland US examination, and we've briefly discussed the most common thyroid diseases: the thyroid nodule under the TIRADS system perspective, and diffuse thyroid disease. Conclusion: US is nowadays an available imaging  technique for non-radiologists, such as the ENT surgeon. However, it's important to rely on training programmes and to perform it rigorously, with appropriate imaging archiving and reporting. ACR -TIRADS system is useful to assess thyroid nodules because it allows us to systematize the decision making process. US is also useful to detect diffuse thyroid disease.