Introduction to Thyroid Nodule Radiofrequency Ablation

During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a small needle electrode into the thyroid’s nodule through ultrasound guidance. It’s uncommon for RFA treatments to produce serious complications, as it is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Heat energy is applied to the nodule using this needle with destruction of cells from within. The nodules gradually shrink in size on follow-up and become a scar tissue within the normal thyroid gland. 

Preparing For Surgery and Recovery

Before the thyroid nodule treatment procedure, the nurse gives you a low-dose sedative to help you relax. This is followed by an externally applied anesthetic localized to the area to receive treatment. Most patients take this time to catch a nap or listen to their favorite music. 

Once the doctor is ready, they insert a thin needle directly into the nodule with ultrasound imaging guidance. The radiofrequency energy needed to target the tissue is then emitted from the tip as the physician guides the instrument across the whole nodule. In 30 to 45 minutes, you can be on your way home with over-the-counter painkillers in case of discomfort afterward. 

The Advantages of RFA of Thyroid Nodules

The major advantages of the technique are as below.

1. It is done as day surgery procedure under light sedation.
2. It takes about 45 minutes to one hour to complete the entire procedure.
3. Patients are discharged the same day.
4. Normal thyroid tissue adjacent to the nodule is preserved.
5. It does not affect thyroid function.
6. Multiple nodules can be treated at same time.
7. The treated nodules do not regrow again.
8. No surgical scar with needle mark on the skin.
9. Quick recovery and back to full activity and normal lifestyle.
10. The technique is suitable to treat even large thyroid nodules.

We invite you to come in for a consultation to see how radiofrequency ablation can help you in a minimally invasive way and the convenience that thyroid nodule RFA surgery offers over other treatments. Contact us today.

Understand the symptoms, prevention, causes, risk factors, and more of thyroid nodules and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as a minimally invasive treatment option in our other insightful and comprehensive blog post.