Radiofrequency ablation for thyroid nodules in Ecuador: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Thyroid nodules are common, with benign nodules (BTN) and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) representing significant clinical concerns.
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) has emerged as a minimally invasive treatment option for various tumors.
• Limited data exists on RFA for thyroid nodules in Ecuador.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the demographic characteristics and short-term clinical outcomes of the first cohort of patients treated with RFA for BTN and PTMC in Ecuador.
• To assess the efficacy of RFA in reducing nodule volume and its feasibility as a treatment modality.

Main Methods:

• A single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted involving adult patients who underwent RFA for BTN and PTMC between July 2019 and May 2022.
• Descriptive statistics were employed to characterize the patient cohort.
• The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre- and post-intervention nodule volumes.

Main Results:

• The study included 44 patients (36 BTN, 8 PTMC) with a median age of 45.8 years; 72.72% had normal thyroid function.
• Significant volume reduction was observed in benign nodules post-RFA, with a 96.20% reduction at 12 months.
• While PTMC volumes also decreased, statistical significance was not reached in the short term, necessitating longer follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) appears to be a feasible short-term treatment option for both benign thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma in Ecuador.
• Further long-term studies are essential to ascertain the oncologic safety and efficacy of RFA for PTMC.
• This study represents the first report on RFA for thyroid nodules in Ecuador, highlighting its potential in the region.