FNA Service Description

Our cytopathologists are specially trained in Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) biopsy and ultrasound-guided FNA.

We offer both palpation-guided FNA and ultrasound-guided FNA of superficial* masses that may be palpable or non-palpable and can be reached through the skin with a 1 ½-inch or 2.5- to 3-centimeter needle (please see any restrictions below). Superficial masses that we are routinely asked to biopsy utilizing FNA include those within the thyroid, subcutaneous tissue, salivary gland, and enlarged lymph nodes.**

Scheduling FNA

• To refer ambulatory patients for a same-day FNA or to schedule an advanced patient appointment for FNA to our Cytodiagnosis Center:
  • Click on our Appointment Calendar to view availability AND THEN CALL (804) 828-9740
  • We accept FNA patients to our Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday

• For FNA requests for a VCU hospital inpatient for our mobile, on-demand cytopathology FNA service:
  • Services may be requested from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Monday through Friday, by calling (804) 828-9740

What To Bring To Your Appointment

• Insurance card(s)
• Identification (drivers license or government-issued ID)
• Medical records (preferably faxed from your doctor's office prior to appointment)
• Radiology reports or images (preferably faxed from your doctor's office prior to appointment)

Our Fax: (804) 628-4661

About Your FNA Procedure

• Why did my doctor order this test? 
• What is Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)?
• What are the goals of FNA?
• Will the FNA procedure be painful?
• Is there any special preparation I need to do before the biopsy?
• How is the visit conducted and FNA procedure performed?
• What are the possible complications?
• Will the biopsy make the tumor spread?
• How are the FNA results obtained?
• Are you thinking of not coming in?

Directions & Parking Information

We are located within the Anatomic Pathology department at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center:

Cytodiagnosis Center
Gateway Building
6th Floor, Room 6-224 
1200 East Marshall Street
Richmond, VA 23298 Phone: (804) 828-9740 (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

Our Mission, Vision and Values

To deliver the highest-quality, personalized cytopathology consultation services, including fine-needle aspiration, as an integral part of the interdisciplinary team approach to the health care of our referred patients and to become a leader in all facets of fine-needle aspiration education.

In the course of our daily work as health care professionals and as we conduct our unique medical practice of cytopathology, our Cytodiagnosis Center is guided by the following values:

Educational Opportunities

Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA): Palpation and Ultrasound-Guided Methods
Individual, practical, hands-on training in all aspects of Palpation and Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration and FNA procedure assistance.
Educational opportunities can be tailored to meet the individual needs of practicing physicians, residents, fellows or other medical professionals that may be interested.

Contact Us

Cytodiagnosis Center
1200 East Marshall Street
Gateway Building
6th Floor, Room 6-224 
Richmond, VA 23298

Phone: (804) 828-9740 (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) 
Fax: (804) 628-4661