Minimally Invasive

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radio waves to generate heat and destroy abnormal thyroid tissue, such as nodules. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients with benign thyroid nodules that are symptomatic or cause cosmetic concerns, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery. RFA is used to shrink these nodules, which can alleviate symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or the visible appearance of nodules on the neck.

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Indications for RFA Treatment

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is particularly effective for treating benign thyroid nodules under certain conditions, making it a preferred choice for specific patient needs. RFA is ideally suited for solid or predominantly solid benign thyroid nodules, where it can effectively reduce their size and impact.

This treatment is especially beneficial for nodules that cause size-related symptomatic issues, such as difficulties with swallowing or visible cosmetic concerns, or for nodules that produce an excess amount of thyroid hormone referred to as 'hot" or "toxic" nodules that cause hyperthyroidism. A simple and quick treatment can improve your quality of life.

Additionally, for RFA to be considered a safe option, the targeted nodules must be located at a safe distance from critical structures in the neck. This precaution helps to avoid potential complications during the procedure, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

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Am I candidate for RFA?

To determine if you qualify for RFA, a thorough evaluation including neck imaging and fine-needle aspiration biopsy to confirm the benign nature of the nodule is necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms from thyroid nodules and are interested in a minimally invasive treatment option, reach out to American Endocrine for a personalized consultation. Our team will work with you to assess your condition and discuss whether RFA is the right choice for your healthcare needs.

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RFA vs. Surgery: Outcomes

When comparing Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) to traditional surgery, several distinct advantages emerge that highlight the benefits of RFA as a treatment option. Firstly, RFA is considered minimally invasive; it is non-invasive and involves a needle probe, with less disruption to surrounding tissues, which typically results in significantly quicker recovery times for patients. This aspect is particularly appealing to those who wish to minimize downtime and return to their daily activities as soon as possible. Additionally, RFA provides a high degree of precision in targeting the affected thyroid tissue, which helps preserve overall thyroid function by minimizing damage to the rest of the gland.

This targeted approach reduces the likelihood of complications that are more common in traditional surgery, such as infections, bleeding, or potential nerve damage. These factors make RFA an attractive option for patients looking for safer and less invasive treatment alternatives.

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Thyroid cancer and RFA

The role of RFA for small, low-risk thyroid cancer is being studied. Size and location of the thyroid cancer are important factors. Patients with suspicion of possible thyroid cancer spread to adjacent lymph nodes are not candidates for RFA.

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What to Expect

• Once you are determined to be a candidate, the RFA procedure is performed as an outpatient under local anesthesia. You will be awake, lying down, and communicating with the team throughout the procedure.
• Under the guidance of ultrasound, which provides real-time imaging, a thin needle probe is carefully inserted into the target thyroid nodule. Once properly positioned, radiofrequency wave energy is transmitted through the probe. The entire process typically takes less than an hour.
• You will be observed for a short period before discharge. Post-procedural care involves taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and applying intermittent cold compression for your comfort.
• Follow up in 3 months for an ultrasound exam to monitor the progress and for blood work.
  

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Disadvantages and Risks of RFA

While RFA is a safe and effective treatment option for many patients with thyroid nodules, it is not without its limitations and potential complications:

• Incomplete ablation of the nodule: The goal of RFA is to "shrink" the nodule, not to completely eliminate it. You will need serial follow-ups with ultrasound, and the ablated nodule can regrow, requiring additional treatments.
• No final tissue diagnosis: Compared to surgical resection, there is no tissue specimen for a pathologist to review. Cancer diagnosis could be missed or delayed.
• Although rare, injury from needle probe manipulation and excessive thermal injury to surrounding tissue can occur, leading to nerve damage, bleeding, infection, or other complications related to the procedure.

These risks underscore the importance of careful patient selection and meticulous procedural execution by experienced medical professionals.

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Our Partnership with STARmed

American Endocrine has partnered with STARmed, the first and leading provider of medical technology for RFA procedures, to bring this advanced treatment to our patients.