As of January 1, 2025, Medicare and qualifying insurance plans in the United States now cover thyroid RFA procedures under the following CPT® code:

60660: Ablation of one or more thyroid nodule(s) in one lobe or the isthmus, percutaneous, including imaging guidance.

This CPT® code helps streamline the reimbursement process and is expected to improve insurance coverage for thyroid RFA. However, CMS specifies that it can only be used once per treatment session, regardless of the number of nodules treated in the same lobe or isthmus.

For precise coverage details and out-of-pocket costs, please check with your insurance provider.

Disclaimer:

Insurance coverage varies by plan. While the introduction of CPT® codes 60660 and 60661 aims to improve coverage, it does not guarantee reimbursement. Consult your healthcare provider and insurance company for confirmation. THYBLATE^TM cannot guarantee insurance approval.

Find a physician trained in THYBLATE™ radiofrequency ablation system using our Physician Locator. Please consult our healthcare professionals for specific advice regarding the potential benefits, risks, and suitability of this treatment for your individual situation.

A local anesthetic is used to make the patient as comfortable as possible. An ice pack may also be applied if needed.

RFA uses a thin needle to safely deliver energy to the nodule(s). Unlike traditional surgery, no incision is made — just a small needle mark that fades within a few days, leaving little to no visible scarring.

The procedure typically takes about 30–60 minutes, including preparation. The actual ablation time depends on the size, number, and location of the nodules; larger or multiple nodules may take longer. Afterward, patients are monitored for a short period before going home. The physician can provide a more specific time estimate after evaluating the nodules.

Studies have shown that nodules under 20 mL in volume can typically be treated in a single session, although the number of treatment sessions required may vary depending on individual patient factors. Repeated procedures may be needed for larger nodules, cases with multiple nodules, or when treatment requires extra caution near sensitive structures like the vocal cord nerves⁷.

After the procedure, Patients are typically monitored every few months to ensure that symptoms are resolved.

In the US, the 2025 American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines recognize ultrasound-guided percutaneous ablation as an option for selected patients with low-risk papillary thyroid cancer, as an alternative to active surveillance or surgery⁸. An international consensus approved by European Thyroid Association, American Head and Neck Society, and many other thyroid associations published a study on its efficacy⁹ as well.