Thyroid nodules are the non-cancerous growths of cells on the thyroid gland. Some of the thyroid nodules can cause breathing and swallowing difficulties. Earlier, patients who were suffering from thyroid nodules had surgery as the only solution to treat them. But, with advancements in technology, radiofrequency thyroid ablation (RFA) has become one of the popular and minimally invasive techniques for treating thyroid nodules.
RFA makes use of radio waves to generate heat and shrink the thyroid nodules. It is effective at treating patients who have thyroid nodules that are causing signs.
Which Type of Thyroid Nodules Can Be Treated With Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation (RFA)?
RFA is effective at treating the following types of thyroid nodules:
- Thyroid nodules that cause cosmetic issues
- Over-functioning thyroid nodules
- Benign solid thyroid nodules
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work for Thyroid Nodules?
RFA for thyroid nodules can be performed on an outpatient basis and you can go back home on the same day. You will be given local anesthesia to reduce pain and discomfort during the procedure. The procedure uses radio waves to generate heat. The generated heat affects the targeted tissues and it eventually shrinks.
During the procedure, a small needle-like probe with an electrode is inserted into your body to generate heat. The tip of the probe will be placed in the correct location using ultrasound guidance. Now, radiofrequency waves are passed through the probe and it destroys the affected tissues.
The entire procedure can last from 30 minutes to one hour based on the size of the nodule. The procedure is pain free but some patients may experience some pain and discomfort following the procedure. However, it can be treated easily using over-the-counter medications.
What Can I Expect After RFA for Thyroid Nodules?
The main goal of RFA for thyroid nodules is to reduce the size of the thyroid nodule. You may notice a reduction in the size of thyroid nodules within a month of your procedure. The nodule keeps shrinking until it is much smaller. If the thyroid nodule is large, you may need additional RFA procedure to shrink the nodule.
What Are the Benefits of Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation?
The following are the benefits of undergoing RFA for thyroid nodules:
- It is minimally invasive
- Preserves the functioning of the healthy thyroid tissue and reduces the need for lifetime medication
- There is no downtime
- The recovery is shorter compared to surgery
- There will not be any scars following the RFA
- Improves your quality of life
Who Can Undergo Radiofrequency Thyroid Ablation?
If you have benign thyroid nodules, then you can be the right candidate for radiofrequency thyroid ablation. You are a good candidate for RFA if you have benign thyroid nodules with the following signs:
- Hyperthyroidism that causes excess production of thyroid hormones
- Hypothyroidism that causes reduced production of thyroid hormones
- Symptomatic thyroid nodules causing cosmetic issues
- Patients who cannot safely undergo surgery
Want to Undergo RFA for Thyroid Nodules? Meet Dr Pradyumna Reddy Today
If you have thyroid nodules that are causing signs, then you should consider meeting Dr Pradyumna Reddy. He has been working as an interventional radiologist in Hyderabad for over 6 years. He closely works with you to determine if RFA is right for you. He performs RFA using the latest technology to achieve the best possible outcome. To know if you are suitable for radiofrequency thyroid ablation, schedule your consultation with Dr Pradyumna Reddy today.
