Novel Thyroid Treatments
If you have a thyroid cyst or thyroid cancer, there are some cutting-edge treatments available that allow certain patients to avoid surgery. In appropriate cases, fluid-filled thyroid cysts and recurrent thyroid cancer lymph nodes can be treated with much less invasive alternatives. Because these techniques are relatively new, they’re not available in many locations.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive technique that uses a probe the size of a needle to shrink thyroid nodules using alternating frequencies and heat. The technique has been used in Europe and Asia, but is relatively new in the United States. Nodules can decrease in size by 30-80%, depending on the type. Most patients do not require thyroid medicine after the procedure and there are few side effects. Patients may be asked to remain NPO (nothing to eat after midnight) for the procedure and may be given light anesthesia sedation, similar to what is given for a colonoscopy procedure.
*We currently do not perform RFA in our clinic. There are only a few centers nationwide that do.
High Intensity Frequency Ultrasound (HIFU)
Another non-operative technique for benign solid thyroid nodules is high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). This form of minimally-invasive treatment uses focused ultrasound waves to destroy benign thyroid nodules through the skin, without the use of needles. Nodules have been shown to shrink by an average of 50% volume, but do not go away completely. Treatment is currently only available in Europe. .
