Ultrasound of Thyroid - Elastography Thyroid Nodule Elastography
This is a non-invasive, radiation-free specialized ultrasound test focused on evaluating thyroid nodules, a common abnormality of the endocrine system. It uses shear wave technology to measure the stiffness of thyroid tissue, as stiffer nodules are more likely to be cancerous than softer, benign growths. The test takes approximately 30 minutes, requires no special preparation, and is often performed alongside a standard thyroid ultrasound to provide more detailed diagnostic information.
This non-invasive, radiation-free ultrasound test measures the stiffness of thyroid nodules to help differentiate between non-cancerous and potentially cancerous growths, with no special preparation required.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- us
- Body part
- neck · thyroid
- Ionizing radiation
- false
- Radiation dose
- 0
- Duration (min)
- 30
- Pregnancy safe
- true
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- none
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- routine
- Setting
- outpatient
- Cost tier
- low
What Is Thyroid Shear Wave Elastography?
Shear wave elastography is a specialized ultrasound technique that uses harmless, low-frequency sound waves to generate and track shear waves as they pass through thyroid tissue. Stiffer tissue, which is often a sign of cancerous thyroid nodules, slows these waves down more significantly than softer, benign tissue, allowing the imaging system to create a color-coded map of tissue stiffness across the entire thyroid gland. The test is completely painless and carries no risk of exposure to ionizing radiation or contrast dye.
Clinical Applications for Endocrine Health
This test is a core diagnostic tool for endocrine care, most often ordered for patients who have had a standard thyroid ultrasound that identified one or more thyroid nodules. It provides additional diagnostic data to help endocrinologists and radiologists avoid unnecessary invasive biopsies of clearly benign nodules, and prioritize biopsy for nodules with stiffness patterns consistent with thyroid cancer. It may also be used to monitor known benign thyroid nodules over time to check for changes in stiffness that could signal a need for further evaluation, and supports workup for patients with abnormal thyroid function test results that prompt imaging of the endocrine gland.
What to Expect During Your Exam
The test is performed by a trained ultrasound technologist, who will apply a warm, water-based gel to the front of your neck and move a small handheld ultrasound probe over the area to capture real-time images and stiffness measurements of your thyroid. The process is completely painless, takes approximately 30 minutes total, and you will be able to resume all normal activities immediately after the test is complete, with no recovery time needed.
Preparation and Safety Information
No special preparation is required for this test: you can eat and drink normally before your appointment, and you do not need to fast or stop taking any of your regular medications. The test uses no ionizing radiation, no contrast dye, and carries no risk of claustrophobia, making it safe for people of all ages, including pregnant people when ordered by a care provider.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by radiologist.
What Is This Procedure?
This ultrasound evaluates thyroid, specifically thyroid. No radiation exposure.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of thyroid. Part of the endocrine system.
Common Uses
This exam is commonly used to detect abnormalities, guide treatments, and monitor known conditions.
What to Expect
The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy