Radiofrequency ablation for nodal recurrence in papillary thyroid carcinoma

The optimal management of recurrent papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in cervical lymph nodes remains a clinical challenge. Lymphadenectomy is the gold standard, but reoperative procedures have a well-documented increase in morbidity. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a promising alternative for the management of nodal metastases. In this study, nine patients with ten sites of PTC nodal recurrence were treated with RFA. At one month, there was a statistically significant reduction in nodule size (P = .022). By the end of follow-up, all patients achieved a volume reduction ratio (VRR) > 90%, and three-quarters demonstrated complete sonographic resolution. One patient experienced transient voice change. No major complications occurred. These findings support RFA as a safe and effective therapy that can play a complementary role to surgery and radioactive iodine in the management of nodal recurrence of PTC.