Thyroid Nodule Ablation

What is Thyroid Nodule Ablation?

Thyroid nodule ablation is a treatment for symptomatic, benign thyroid nodules. It is for patients with nodules that cause symptoms like swallowing discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the neck. We use a treatment called “ablation” which shrinks the nodule as an alternative to surgery.

What does the procedure involve?

• A specialist interventional radiologist will first consult and examine you in the outpatient clinic to assess your suitability for the procedure
• The procedure is performed with local anaesthetic under ultrasound guidance
• A small needle is inserted into the thyroid nodule and heat energy is applied to the nodule, which destroys it, causing it to break down and shrink

What are the benefits of Thyroid Nodule Ablation?

• There is minimal scarring at the needle insertion site after the procedure
• Recovery and return-to-work times are typically shorter than after surgery
• Over the 6 to 12 months following treatment, the nodule will shrink down in size and become less bothersome in most people

What are the alternatives to Thyroid Nodule Ablation?

1. Surgical removal (total or hemi-thyroidectomy)
2. Conservative management (observation)

What if I decide not to have the procedure?

If you would not like to proceed with thyroid nodule ablation or it is unsuitable for you, our team will discuss alternative options with you and arrange referral to other practitioners as appropriate

What should I do with my medication?

It is important to tell your care team about any allergies you may be aware of and treatments or medications you may be taking, including non-prescription medications, vitamins or herbal remedies.

In particular, please inform the treating team of any anticoagulation medication you are taking.

What complications can happen?

Overall, the rate of complications is low, however possible complications include:

• Thyroid nodule haematoma (bleeding)
• Thyroid nodule rupture
• Nerve injury and voice change
• Recurrence / retreatment

How soon will I recover?

Most patients can go home approximately 4 hours after the procedure and return to normal activities within 2 – 3 days after thyroid nodule ablation.

Summary

• Thyroid nodule ablation is a treatment for symptomatic, benign thyroid nodules that uses heat energy to shrink the nodule as an alternative to surgery
• It is performed as a day procedure under local anaesthetic, and most patients are able to return home the same day
• The rate of complications is low compared to surgical removal, however there is a chance that you may require further treatment in the future