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Microwave ablation of thyroid nodules and metastatic thyroid cervical lymph nodes: the first case series from Ecuador

Microwave ablation of thyroid nodules and metastatic thyroid cervical lymph nodes: the first case series from Ecuador

Microwave ablation (MWA) has emerged as a minimally invasive technique, transforming the therapeutic landscape for benign thyroid nodules (BTN), papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC), and cervical lymph node metastasis (CLNM). This study aims to present the first experience in Ecuador using MWA. We included adults undergoing MWA for BTN, PTMC, and CLNM between September 2022 and April 2023. Descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used to compare some pre- and post-intervention outcomes.

MWA, as a minimally invasive technique, has demonstrated safety and efficacy in the treatment of BTN, low-risk PTMC, and lymph node metastases (LNM). MWA is associated with faster treatment times and the ability to create a larger, more uniform ablation zone, making it particularly advantageous for nodules located near blood vessels. Nonetheless, additional comprehensive studies with long-term follow-up are necessary in the Latin American population to further validate and expand the application of this therapy, particularly in cases of PTMC and LNM.

Citation

Godoy R, Solis-Pazmino P, Walder F, Lincango EP, Lehn C. Microwave ablation of thyroid nodules and metastatic thyroid cervical lymph nodes: the first case series from Ecuador. J Surg Case Rep. 2025;2025(4):rjaf197. Published 2025 Apr 7. doi:10.1093/jscr/rjaf197

Conclusion

microwave ablation; thyroid nodules; thyroid cancer

Key Words

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