Radiofrequency ablation of functioning and non-functioning thyroid nodules: a single institution 12-month survey

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Oncology

Background:

• Radiofrequency (RF) treatment is increasingly utilized for benign thyroid nodules.
• Evaluating RF treatment efficacy for volume reduction in both functioning and non-functioning nodules is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of RF treatment in reducing the volume of benign thyroid nodules.
• To compare the efficacy of RF treatment for functioning versus non-functioning thyroid nodules.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 43 patients undergoing thyroid nodule RF ablation (August 2017 - May 2018).
• Follow-up included ultrasound and thyroid function tests at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-procedure.
• Complications were assessed per Interventional societies' standards.

Main Results:

• Mean volume reduction across all 43 nodules was 69.1% ± 17.3% (range 26.0-94.5%).
• No significant difference in volume reduction was observed between functioning (72.9% ± 18.1%) and non-functioning nodules (66.7% ± 16.7%, p=0.254).
• No major complications were reported.

Conclusions:

• Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective outpatient treatment for benign thyroid nodules.
• A single RF treatment session can effectively restore euthyroidism in patients with autonomously functioning thyroid nodules.