Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for thyroid treatment is a medical procedure that addresses certain thyroid conditions without traditional surgery. It is a minimally invasive technique that uses radio waves to generate heat, which targets and reduces the size of thyroid nodules. This approach allows for treatment with less impact on surrounding tissues and a quicker recovery.
Understanding Thyroid RFA
RFA is primarily used to treat benign thyroid nodules that cause symptoms or cosmetic concerns. These nodules can be solid or predominantly solid. RFA is also applied to over-functioning thyroid nodules, sometimes referred to as toxic nodules, or recurrent goiter. The main objective of this treatment is to reduce the nodule’s size, alleviating symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, breathing issues, or a persistent cough. Studies have shown significant volume reduction, ranging from 51% to 85% within the first six months after RFA for benign nodules.
How Radiofrequency Ablation Works
Radiofrequency ablation converts radiofrequency energy into heat to ablate, or destroy, targeted thyroid tissue. A thin needle electrode is precisely inserted into the thyroid nodule, guided by real-time ultrasound imaging. This allows the physician to accurately position the needle tip within the nodule.
Once positioned, radiofrequency current is delivered through the needle, generating localized heat at the tip. This heat causes thermal tissue necrosis and fibrosis, essentially destroying the cells within the nodule. The body then gradually absorbs the ablated tissue, leading to a reduction in the nodule’s size over time.
The RFA Procedure Experience
Patients undergoing thyroid RFA can generally expect an outpatient procedure, meaning they can return home the same day. Before the procedure, a local anesthetic is applied to the area around the thyroid gland to numb it. Some patients may opt for a mild sedative to help them relax, ensuring comfort during the treatment.
During the procedure, continuous ultrasound guidance is used to precisely position the thin needle electrode into the thyroid nodule. The procedure typically lasts about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the nodule’s size. Throughout the process, the patient’s vitals are monitored.
Immediately after RFA, patients usually have only a small bandage on their neck. Some may experience minor discomfort or bruising, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Recovery is generally quick, with most individuals able to resume their normal daily activities within a day or so.
Is RFA Right for You?
RFA is an option for patients seeking a minimally invasive approach to treat benign, symptomatic thyroid nodules that are solid or predominantly solid, and for autonomously functioning thyroid nodules. A key advantage of RFA over traditional surgery is that it avoids a surgical incision, leaving no visible scar. The procedure typically uses local anesthesia, eliminating the need for general anesthesia and its associated risks. RFA often preserves more of the surrounding healthy thyroid tissue, which can help maintain normal thyroid function.