Multiple overlapping microwave ablation in benign thyroid nodule: a single-center 24-month study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Benign thyroid nodules are common and can cause symptoms.
• Current treatments like surgery have risks.
• Minimally invasive options are sought for thyroid nodule management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and long-term efficacy of a novel non-cooled microwave ablation system.
• To assess the multiple overlapping ablation technique for benign symptomatic thyroid nodules.
• To determine the clinical outcomes over a 24-month follow-up period.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study involving 30 patients with benign thyroid nodules.
• Treatment using a novel non-cooled microwave ablation system with a multiple overlapping technique.
• Evaluation of safety, efficacy, volume reduction, symptom scores, cosmetic scores, and thyroid function over 24 months.

Main Results:

• Significant nodule volume reduction, reaching 81% by 24 months.
• Marked improvement in symptom and cosmetic scores.
• Thyroid function remained within normal limits, with hyperthyroidism cases resolving.
• A single case of temporary laryngeal paralysis fully recovered.

Conclusions:

• The novel microwave ablation system demonstrates a good safety profile and high clinical success rate.
• This technique is a viable alternative to surgery and radiofrequency ablation for benign thyroid nodules.