Laser application for minimal invasive reduction of thyroid gland tissue

Administration of antithyroid agents, surgery and radioiodine therapy are the established methods for treating hyperthyroidism. All of the methods are relatively complex and are associated with risks. That is why the sonographically controlled minimum invasive alcohol injection method was developed. The disadvantage associated with this procedure, however, is that it can not be controlled as effectively.

Thyroid gland tissue is removed from an animal model with delimitation by means of thermal coagulation using a new, specially developed ITT laser probe. The treatment is effected by puncturing intact skin. Placing of the probe is controlled sonographically. The puncture channel is 18 G; the laser probe has a diameter of 0.8 mm. The procedure is effected using local anesthesia which may be combined with light analgesic sedation and takes approx. 10 minutes. The laser application lasts 145 seconds and has a total power of 1195 joules.

Laser treatment can be compared with the invasiveness of a jugular vein catheter unit and has good tolerance. Complete histologic healing of the coagulation zone takes 4 weeks and the boundaries of the scar contraction are barely recognizable. The size of the coagulation zone can only be controlled to a certain degree in the animal model on account of its anatomy.

The minimal invasive method based on laser-induced reduction of thyroid gland tissue can be performed on an animal model and is safe. Further research needs to be done to determine the extent to which the results can be transferred to human beings.