Dr. Schlotter also has a special interest in thyroid surgery. Thyroid nodules (or lumps) are fairly common. The first step in evaluation is usually a biopsy (or sampling) of the nodule in conjunction with an ultrasound examination. This procedure is called a fine needle aspiration (FNA). Dr. Schlotter can perform this procedure in the office using our ultrasound and a laboratory technician that preps the slides for the pathologist. You will be scheduled for a follow up visit with Dr. Schlotter approximately one week later to discuss the results of the FNA with you. Sometimes thyroid surgery is indicated. This is usually scheduled as an outpatient surgery but occasionally an overnight stay is necessary.