Neck ultrasonography is the best, most sensitive and specific method of evaluating thyroid nodules, thyroid goiters, and neck lymph nodes.
Thyroid ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that pass through the tissues to create images and can help the surgeon determine which nodules are worrisome, if there is evidence of thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s or Graves disease), and if any surrounding lymph nodes look suspicious.
Ultrasound can also be used to perform a fine needle aspiration biopsy of a thyroid nodule or neck lymph node.