The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Benign Nodule Treatment

RFA in benign thyroid nodules is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Benign Nodule Treatment?

Thyroid RFA is based on ultrasound-guided placement of a fine-needle electrode within the nodule and tissue coagulation by heat from a high-frequency current.

It provides 50-80% volume reduction in benign nodules. May also be used in selected cases of autonomously functioning solitary adenomas.

With the moving shot technique, the nodule is systematically ablated in small portions; complication rate is low.

Symptoms

Pressure sensation, swallowing difficulty
Cosmetic discomfort
Hoarseness
Shortness of breath (large nodule)
Autonomous function
Growing benign nodule
Patient who does not prefer surgery
Recurrent non-toxic goiter

Risk Factors

Suspicious cytology
Heavy systemic anticoagulation
Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism
Large retrosternal extension
Recurrent laryngeal nerve close anatomy
Active infection
Pregnancy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Endocrinology and radiology council evaluation
  • Patient information and consent
  • Two fine-needle aspirations for benign confirmation
  • Imaging follow-up

Treatment Methods

01
Local anesthesia and mild sedation
02
Ultrasound-guided trans-isthmic approach
03
Moving shot technique
04
Hydrodissection to protect adjacent tissue
05
Vocal cord control
06
Cold compress after procedure
07
Outpatient discharge
08
Ultrasound check at 3rd and 6th months
09
Repeat ablation if needed

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Radyoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

What Is MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)?

Radyoloji

MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves and is the gold standard for imaging the brain, spine, joints, and internal organs.

What Is CT (Computed Tomography)?

Radyoloji

Computed tomography provides rapid, detailed cross-sectional images in emergency, trauma, and oncology cases.

What Is Ultrasound (Ultrasonography)?

Radyoloji

Ultrasonography is radiation-free and is widely used in pregnancy follow-up and the evaluation of abdominal organs and superficial tissues.

What Is an X-ray (Plain Radiograph)?

Radyoloji

X-ray is the oldest and most widely used radiologic test, providing rapid diagnosis in bone and lung pathologies.

Mammography

Radyoloji

Mammography is specialized low-dose X-ray imaging of breast tissue that detects cancer, often before clinical palpation, and is the primary tool for breast cancer screening in women 40 and older per ACR/ESR guidelines.

Doppler Ultrasound

Radyoloji

Doppler USG is critical for evaluating deep vein thrombosis, carotid stenosis, and organ blood flow.

Angiography

Radyoloji

Angiography examines all vascular systems in the body in detail, especially the cardiac and cerebral vessels.

PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography)

Radyoloji

PET-CT combines metabolic activity with anatomical imaging in cancer staging and treatment-response evaluation.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.