Single-session high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation for benign thyroid nodules: a systematic review

Thyroid nodules are common; the majority of them are benign and asymptomatic. Thyroidectomy might be an option; however, the frequency of post-operative complications mandates the development of alternative approaches, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation (HIFU). HIFU induces thermal destruction without penetrating the skin. The present systematic review aims to synthesize all available data, evaluating studies with single-session HIFU therapy and investigating its efficacy.

This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and MetaAnalyses). Eligible articles were identified by a search of Medline bibliographic database (PubMed) and Cochrane Library. Out of 39 results, 11 articles were considered to meet the inclusion criteria.

All eligible studies included patients with solid or predominantly solid benign thyroid nodules. All patients were treated with the same HIFU device. The success rate of the method was defined in the majority, with the volume reduction rate (VRR) over 50% from baseline. The mean or median VRR ranged from 48.7 to 70.41%, depending on the last follow-up date. No major complications were observed.

Single-session HIFU is safe and effective for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules.