Thyroid nodules are the unusual growth of cells within the thyroid gland. Thyroid nodules whether cancerous or non – cancerous can show signs such as persistent cough, breathing issues, etc. Thyroid nodules can be treated using various types of treatments. Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation or RFA is a popular non-invasive procedure for treating thyroid nodules. RFA procedure focuses on reducing or shrinking the thyroid nodules using radio waves.
The RFA procedure will be performed by an interventional radiologist who uses medical imaging guidance to diagnose and treat the condition.
What Types of Thyroid Nodules Can Be Treated with RFA?
Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation is effective at treating the following:
- Solid thyroid nodules that are benign
- Thyroid nodules that cause cosmetic issues
- Over-functioning thyroid nodules
Why Should I Choose RFA Over Surgery?
RFA is a non-surgical procedure and the entire procedure can be completed in an hour. It also reduces the need to undergo surgery to treat the thyroid nodules. Surgery can result in visible scarring, but RFA does not cause any scars. With RFA, patients can get back to daily activities within a short period when compared to surgery. Surgery may involve removing a portion of the thyroid, whereas RFA preserves the thyroid and supports its normal functioning without the use of medications.
How Does RFA Treat Thyroid Nodules?
RFA procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and you can get back home on the same day of the procedure. You will be given local anesthesia to make you feel comfortable during the procedure. Now, the interventional radiologist will place a thin needle into the thyroid nodule using ultrasound guidance. Once the needle is in the correct position, radiofrequency energy will be emitted from the tip of the needle. The instrument is systematically moved through the entire nodule using ultrasound guidance to treat as much as possible. This will eventually shrink the thyroid nodule.
The entire procedure can take around 30 minutes to one hour based on the size of the nodule. You may experience slight pain and discomfort after the procedure. But it can be easily managed with medications.
What Are the Benefits of Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation?
The following are the benefits of using Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation for treating thyroid nodules:
- It is a minimally invasive procedure
- Preserves the normal functioning of your thyroid nodules
- The entire procedure can be completed within an hour
- Faster recovery
- No visible scarring from the procedure
- Low risk of complications
- Reduces the signs and improves the quality of life
How Successful is Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation at Treating Thyroid Nodules?
Clinical evidence has shown that Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation is highly successful at treating benign thyroid nodules. Patients who had Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation procedure have seen a drastic reduction in the size of thyroid nodules within six months. The signs of thyroid nodules can also be reduced with the RFA procedure. RFA procedure is also successful at reducing major complications and hospitalization following the procedure. Not only shorter hospital stays and shorter recovery, but RFA offers greater patient satisfaction than any other procedure.
Have a Thyroid Nodule and Want to Undergo RFA? Meet Dr Pradyumna Reddy Today
If you have been suffering from a thyroid nodule and want to undergo an RFA procedure, then Dr Pradyumna Reddy is your go-to place. Dr Pradyumna Reddy has been working as an interventional radiologist in Hyderabad for over 6 years. He will closely work with you to develop the most appropriate and advanced treatments and care. He will be with you throughout the entire procedure starting from medical evaluation to recovery. To know if you can undergo RFA, schedule your initial consultation with Dr Pradyumna Reddy today.
