Thyroid nodules, upon detailed diagnosis, include both non-cancerous and cancerous tumor groups. In cases where the thyroid nodule is non-cancerous, it can be treated with Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), which has minimal side effects, takes a short time, requires no recovery period, and does not recur
Are thyroid nodules dangerous?
Patients with nodules in the thyroid area, if the nodules are small enough not to cause symptoms or are barely palpable, will not significantly impact daily life. However, if the nodule in the neck is palpable and the thyroid nodule is gradually increasing in size, even if it is not cancer, it can affect daily life, such as difficulty swallowing, a choking sensation, and tightness in the neck, etc. Therefore, seeing a doctor for treatment promptly is important. There are many treatment options, including medication, iodine swallowing, surgery, and currently, non-surgical Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) which has minimal side effects. The treatment method depends significantly on the doctor’s assessment.
What is non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation?
Non-surgical thyroid nodule ablation (Radiofrequency Ablation – RFA) is a procedure that involves inserting a special needle into the thyroid nodule. The position of the nodule is clearly seen through an X-ray computer screen or ultrasound before releasing RF heat waves as radiofrequency energy through the needle’s tip to destroy the thyroid nodule. The doctor will inject local anesthesia and sterilize the area before treatment. This method emphasizes the doctor’s expertise, takes a short treatment time, has low side effects, and may result in temporary hoarseness or minor bleeding post-treatment. Patients can go home immediately
Who is suitable for non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation?
- Patients with non-cancerous thyroid nodules
- Patients with thyroid nodules that are not too large
Diagnosis before non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation
- Laboratory examination of thyroid tissue
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels check
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Blood clotting time measurement (Activated Clotting Time)
When are the results of non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation seen?
After undergoing non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation, the thyroid nodules will gradually decrease in size, shrinking 30% in the first month, 50% after 3 months, and 70% – 80% after 6 months.
Advantages of non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation
- No scarring
- No need for general anesthesia
- Reduces complications
- Treatment time is short
- No hospital stay is required
- Quick recovery, quickly returning to normal life
- Pleasing treatment results
- Does not cause abnormal thyroid hormones
Limitations of non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation
- Very large thyroid nodules
- Pregnant women
- Blood disorders, conditions with easy and hard-to-stop bleeding
- Patients who cannot lie flat
- Patients with a Pacemaker
Care after non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation
- Visit the doctor as scheduled at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months
- Avoid heavy exercise in the first 2 weeks after treatment
- Avoid using the voice excessively in the first 2 weeks after treatment
- Avoid pressing on the neck area
Doctors skilled in non-surgical (RFA) thyroid nodule ablation
Dr.Natthanon Maneesathien is a specialist in endocrine and metabolic diseases at Bangkok Hospital
You can click here to make an appointment yourself
Hospitals specializing in thyroid disease treatment
Bangkok Hospital is ready to take care of thyroid patients with an experienced specialist team and modern technology, ensuring confidence in the treatment with non-surgical Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), restoring a good quality of life to patients
