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Thyroid Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) is an effective way to treat benign thyroid nodules (TNs). It provides a number of benefits over traditional treatment. RFA is a minimally invasive, non-surgical method that provides fewer complication risks.
This makes RFA an excellent alternative to thyroidectomies, laser ablation, microwave ablation (MWA), and high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation (HIFU). In this article, we’ll discuss what Thyroid RFA is, its pros and cons, and how to properly perform it safely.
Thyroid Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) is an effective way to treat benign thyroid nodules (TNs). It provides a number of benefits over traditional treatment. RFA is a minimally invasive, non-surgical method that provides fewer complication risks.
This makes RFA an excellent alternative to thyroidectomies, laser ablation, microwave ablation (MWA), and high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation (HIFU). In this article, we’ll discuss what Thyroid RFA is, its pros and cons, and how to properly perform it safely.
RFA is a method of using an RF electrode tip and placing it in a thyroid nodule in order to shrink its size. The radio frequency electrode tip causes friction heat and high tissue temperatures. This leads to tissue death of the enlarged thyroid nodule.
RFA can be performed by various physicians, such as general surgeons, head and neck surgeons, interventional radiologists, and endocrinologists.
The equipment recommended for ablation is:
Step 1. Apply local anesthesia to the surrounding area.
Step 2. Penetrate the skin to place the electrode needle in the thyroid nodule.
Step 3. Use ultrasound guidance to properly place the electrode, holding the electrode in one hand and the ultrasound probe in another hand.
Step 4. Slowly and continuously reposition the electrode nodule to ablate the thyroid nodule, layer by layer.
Step 5. Place an ice pack on the patient’s neck.
Step 6. Discharge the patient within 20-30 minutes.
Step 7. Perform follow-up evaluations over the subsequent 12 months every 3 months.
Here are the pros of using radiofrequency ablation for thyroids:
Outpatient Procedure
You can perform thyroid ablation in as little as 15 to 40 minutes. From there, the patient only needs to wait about another 20 to 30 minutes before they can leave the facility and go home for recovery.
Minimally Invasive
RFA is an excellent non-surgical option. It only requires local anesthetic and, therefore, minimal interference with surrounding tissues. Furthermore, radio frequency ablation leaves minimal scarring. Only a tiny puncture wound is left, which quickly heals. Compare this to a traditional thyroidectomy, which leaves a large scar across the front of the neck.
Enhanced Safety
Radiofrequency ablation is safer for the patient. There is a low risk of complications. Only 28 in 2,000 patients experience major complications. And only 38 in 2,000 experience minor complications.
Shorter Recovery Period And Longer-Lasting Effectiveness
After the procedure, the patient can expect to experience complete nodule shrinkage over a period of around 12 months. In addition, patients typically don’t need lifelong hormone supplementation.
After receiving radioactive thermal ablation, there is a very low likelihood of the patient having hyperthyroidism, needing hospitalization, or experiencing regrowth. Also, most patients can stop methimazole therapy.
RFA is not just more effective, more safe, and longer lasting with less complications, it also provides excellent time and cost benefits.
Duration of the procedure:
Here’s how RFA machine costs ranges compare to other types of therapies:
No therapy is perfect. There are a few challenges to consider when looking at RFA:
RFA has contraindications, therefore it should not be performed on patients with pacemakers or who are pregnant. Also, if the nodule extends into the chest, you should avoid thyroid RFA treatment.
The physician needs experience and training in the moving shot technique. This ensures safe outcomes.
Without the proper equipment, RFA is not possible or safe. Like with any procedure, investing in the right tools is paramount.
RFA is a relatively new therapy. Even though it’s been around for several decades, educating patients on the advantages of radioactive frequency ablation over more traditional methods they may have heard about could require additional upfront effort.
The larger the nodule, the more treatments of RFA you will need to perform. Larger nodules also require longer treatment sessions.
While it has an incredibly low complication ratio, about 1.4% of patients do experience a voice change or nodule rupture. And 1.9% of patients experience minor complications such as pain, nausea, or hematoma.
The physician must remain focused when performing the therapy. There are critical structures surrounding the thyroid gland such as: the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) trachea, internal jugular veins, and common carotid arteries. Luckily, most of the cons of radiofrequency ablation therapy can be mitigated with proper training and proper tools.
Physicians should utilize ultrasound machines while performing RFA therapy for benign thyroid nodules. For instance, the E-Cube X70 is an excellent imaging system for safely performing thermal ablation. The large LCD screen allows you to continuously monitor the patient’s thyroid and the placement of your electrode probe.
For the radiofrequency ablation source, a Mygen V-1000 generator from RF Medical is recommended. It comes pre-programmed with advanced algorithms based on the procedure you’re performing. This helps you ensure precise treatment, only ablating the proper tissue.
Reducing the volume of benign thyroid nodules has historically been difficult, dangerous, and costly. Luckily, doctors now have a safer and easier way to improve the lives of their patients.
Get in touch with RGS HealthCare. It’s time to learn more about proper RFA techniques and equipment to perform this groundbreaking therapy efficiently — without complications.
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