Educational information on the radiofrequency ablation procedure
Thyroid RFA
Physician Testimonials
Physician Testimonial on Thyroid RFA
Dr. Bridget Brady
Dr. Leonardo Rangel
Physician Testimonial on Thyroid RFA (from Dr. Leonardo Rangel)
Dr. Cristina Boccalandro
Physician Testimonial on Thyroid RFA (from Dr. Cristina Boccalandro)
Thyroid RFA
What is Thyroid RFA?
Thyroid RFA is a minimally-invasive medical procedure alternative to surgeries for treating Benign nodules 2,3,4,5,6,7,8. A primary benefit over traditional surgery is that the thyroid, and its function, is preserved.
The Thyroid RFA Procedure
Each procedure may vary slightly depending on the patient’s individual situation. Before RFA, the benign nature of the nodule is confirmed, usually through fine-needle aspiration (FNA). The patient’s thyroid health and voice are also assessed, with additional tests recommended when appropriate. During the procedure, the patient may be asked to speak so that any changes in voice can be detected promptly. The patient is positioned on the treatment table with the neck extended, and local anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
Once the nodule is located with the Ultrasound, the internally-cooled RFA Electrode (a needle that has an active zone to deliver energy) is safely introduced into the nodule. The RF Generator is activated and the ablation begins. The Electrode is repositioned within the nodule every few seconds until the entire nodule is ablated, or treated.
After the nodule(s) are ablated, the patient is given a voice test to confirm no changes (called dysphonia). The patient is also given an over-the-counter pain reliever and ice pack for cooling down the neck area.
Depending on the number, size, and location of the nodules, the entire procedure typically takes approximately 30–60 minutes, including preparation. The ablation itself is generally completed within a few minutes per nodule.
Benefits of Thyroid RFA
Improved Quality of Life12
Unlike surgery, RFA allows thyroid hormones to return to normal, eliminating the need for a lifetime of hormone supplements.
Immediate Symptom Improvement9
Studies have shown that thyroid nodules can achieve an average volume reduction of approximately 80% at 1 year and nearly 90% at 3 years, with continued shrinkage observed during longer-term follow-up5
.
Low Complication Rate10
Across 2,421 patients (2,786 nodules) treated with RFA, the overall complication rate was 2.38%, with major complications in only 1.35% of patients6
.
Incision-free Procedure11
Because there is no surgical incision with RFA, there is no residual scar
Quick Recovery11
Because there is no incision, and only local anesthesia, patients generally go home in a few hours, and return to their normal activities within 1-2 days.
INDICATIONS FOR USE & IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
The THYBLATE™ electrodes are CE-certified and indicated for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules (cystic and non-cystic), goiters, AFTN, and malignant tumors. The THYBLATE™ electrodes are FDA 510(k) cleared for percutaneous and intraoperative coagulation and ablation of tissue. While the THYBLATE™ Thyroid RFA Procedure may offer substantial benefits to many patients, it is not universally applicable, and individual outcomes may vary. Please contact your medical professional for specific advice regarding the potential benefits, risks, and suitability of this treatment in your specific case.
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