Which technique is commonly employed to biopsy a suspected neck mass?

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is a widely used technique for biopsying a suspected neck mass due to its minimally invasive nature and immediate results. During this procedure, a thin, hollow needle is inserted into the mass to extract cells for cytological examination. FNA is particularly advantageous because it can be performed on an outpatient basis, has a low complication rate, and offers quick results, which is crucial in determining the nature of the mass—whether it is malignant or benign.

This technique is also effective for evaluating lymph nodes and other palpable masses in the neck, providing enough cellular material for pathologists to assess without the need for larger incisions or extensive surgical procedures. It is often the first-line approach, especially in the evaluation of thyroid nodules and neck lymphadenopathy, due to its effectiveness in guiding further management based on cytological findings.

In contrast, other biopsy techniques, while useful in specific scenarios, may involve greater risk, complexity, or time. Core needle biopsy, for example, provides a larger tissue sample but may be more invasive. Open surgical biopsy and excisional biopsy involve larger incisions and generally require hospitalization or more significant recovery time, making them less favorable as first-line options for assessing a suspected neck mass.