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Updated: Mar 24, 2026
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Transoral Robotic Total Thyroidectomy and Bilateral Central Regional Lymph Node Dissection for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Published on: September 15, 2023
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Radiofrequency ablation for nodal recurrence in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Andrew Thornton1, Eric Kuo2, James Lee2
1Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of General Surgery, 177 Fort Washington Ave, New York, NY, 10032, United States.
American Journal of Surgery
|March 22, 2026
Summary
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offers a safe and effective treatment for recurrent papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in lymph nodes. This minimally invasive therapy significantly reduces nodule size and achieves high resolution rates, complementing traditional treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Interventional Radiology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Recurrent papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in cervical lymph nodes presents a management challenge.
- Surgical re-intervention (lymphadenectomy) carries increased morbidity risks.
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging alternative for nodal metastases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of RFA for managing recurrent PTC in cervical lymph nodes.
Main Methods:
- Nine patients with ten recurrent PTC nodal sites were treated with RFA.
- Nodule size and volume reduction ratio (VRR) were assessed.
- Sonographic resolution and complications were monitored.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant reduction in nodule size was observed at one month (P = .022).
- All patients achieved >90% VRR by follow-up.
- Complete sonographic resolution occurred in 75% of cases.
- One transient voice change was the only reported complication.
Conclusions:
- RFA is a safe and effective therapy for recurrent PTC nodal metastases.
- RFA can serve as a complementary treatment alongside surgery and radioactive iodine.
- Minimally invasive RFA reduces recurrence treatment morbidity.
