Thyroid nodules are growths that develop in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of the neck. Although most thyroid nodules are benign, a small percentage of them can be malignant. Benign nodules have several treatment options available, including thyroid nodule ablation.
What is thyroid nodule ablation and what are its benefits?
Thyroid nodule ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to treat a nodule. A small amount of precisely applied heat to the nodule allows the tissue in the nodule to stop functioning and be subsequently absorbed by the body, resulting in treatment of the nodule and reduction in size.
Ablation for thyroid nodules offers several benefits over traditional surgical approaches, including faster recovery time, less pain, and a lower risk of complications. Below are some of the key benefits of thyroid nodule ablation.
- Minimal Invasiveness: Thyroid nodule ablation is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning that it requires only a small incision or puncture. Unlike traditional surgery, it does not involve removing a portion of the thyroid gland or in extreme cases the entire thyroid gland, which can be a major advantage for many patients. It allows them to avoid a neckline scar and more importantly improves their chances of maintaining their normal thyroid function. It also does not require a patient to undergo general anesthesia, which has its own costs and associated risks. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, which minimizes the risk of complications and enables patients to return to their normal activities quickly.
- Faster Recovery Time: Thyroid nodule ablation is a quick procedure, typically taking no more than an hour to complete. This contrasts with traditional thyroidectomy, which can take an extended period of time and often requires a hospital stay. After ablation, patients typically experience only mild discomfort and can return to their normal activities within a few days, if not within 24 hours.
- Lower Risk of Complications: Because thyroid nodule ablation is a minimally invasive procedure, it carries a lower risk of complications than traditional thyroidectomy. This includes a lower risk of bleeding, infection, and damage to the surrounding tissues and organs. It also has a lower risk of laryngeal (voice box) nerve injury. Additionally, because the procedure does not involve removing the entire thyroid gland, patients are not at risk of developing hypothyroidism, which is known to occur requiring supplemental thyroid hormone and routine monitoring of thyroid levels.
- Improved Accuracy: Thyroid nodule ablation is performed under high resolution ultrasound which allows for precise targeting of the abnormal tissue. The probe is engineered to deliver precise amounts of heat, ensuring that only the affected area is treated. This helps to minimize the risk of damage to the surrounding healthy tissue and organs, while also ensuring that the entire nodule is treated, making it a highly effective treatment option for many patients.
- Cost-Effective: In addition to its many clinical benefits, thyroid nodule ablation is also a cost-effective treatment option. Because it is a minimally invasive procedure, it requires less time in the operating room, fewer supplies, and less postoperative care. It also avoids the costs associated with staying at the hospital and utilizing general anesthesia. This can help to reduce the overall cost of treatment, making it a more affordable option for many patients.
Read about thyroid nodule radiofrequency ablation at Fairfax Vascular Center, and schedule a consultation to learn more.
