Radiofrequency ablation compared to surgery for thyroid nodules: A case for office based treatment

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Endocrinology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Benign thyroid nodules can cause significant symptoms, necessitating effective treatment options.
• Conventional hemithyroidectomy, while effective, involves surgery with associated risks and longer recovery.
• Exploring less invasive and more cost-effective alternatives is crucial, particularly in public healthcare systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for benign thyroid nodules performed by ENT surgeons.
• To compare RFA with conventional hemithyroidectomy in a public healthcare setting.

Main Methods:

• A study of 50 patients undergoing RFA for symptomatic benign thyroid nodules was conducted between 2020-2022.
• Objective outcomes included nodule volume reduction rate (VRR) and complications.
• Subjective patient-reported outcomes assessed symptoms (obstructive, cosmetic, pain) and satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in mean nodule volume (VRR) and symptom scores (obstructive, cosmetic) were observed at 3, 6, and 12 months post-RFA.
• Radiofrequency ablation demonstrated a shorter mean procedure time and a lower complication rate compared to hemithyroidectomy.
• The estimated patient cost for RFA was less than half that of hemithyroidectomy.

Conclusions:

• Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective treatment for benign thyroid nodules, offering a scarless, local anesthetic procedure.
• RFA presents advantages over hemithyroidectomy, including shorter procedure time, reduced complications, and lower patient cost.
• RFA serves as a valuable alternative to hemithyroidectomy, particularly in resource-limited public healthcare settings with long waiting times.