Spotlight on Innovation: Dr. Richard Harding and the Future of Thyroid Nodule Treatment
- Dr. Richard Harding
- Jul 19
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
In a powerful episode of the Save Your Thyroid podcast, host Jen welcomes renowned thyroid surgeon Dr. Richard Harding for a deep dive into two groundbreaking technologies revolutionizing thyroid nodule care—Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and the emerging frontrunner, Nanosecond Pulsed Field Ablation (NSPFA).
What’s New in Thyroid Treatment?
Dr. Harding shares how these minimally invasive procedures are shifting the paradigm away from traditional surgery. RFA, already well-established, uses thermal energy to treat benign nodules. NSPFA, however, is the rising star—harnessing ultrashort electric pulses to target tissue with remarkable precision and minimal thermal damage. That’s a major leap forward, especially when treating nodules near delicate structures like the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
Why NSPFA Is Generating Buzz
NSPFA shines for its:
Safety near critical anatomy, making it a game-changer for hard-to-reach nodules
Shorter treatment times and reduced downtime
Lower risk of vocal changes or damage
Encouraging feedback from patients who have embraced the non-surgical route
Dr. Harding doesn’t just highlight the science—he brings real-world context from the clinic, discussing who makes ideal candidates, how outcomes compare, and what to expect during recovery.
Eye on the Future
The conversation also tackles important questions:
Will NSPFA become the standard for benign thyroid nodules?
Can it be used for malignant lesions down the line?
How accessible are these treatments—and how do we balance innovation with cost?
By the end of the episode, it’s clear: this isn’t just about new tools—it’s about reimagining thyroid care as more precise, patient-centered, and empowering.
For Patients & Practitioners
Whether you’re navigating treatment decisions or exploring clinical adoption, Dr. Harding offers thoughtful advice. His message is clear: informed choice is essential, and the best options are often those that preserve not just health—but quality of life.
Watch the video
Listen to the audio
00:00 Introduction to Thyroid Nodule Care
01:55 Understanding Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
05:12 Exploring Nanosecond Pulsed Field Ablation (NSPFA)
09:23 Safety and Precision in NSPFA
10:37 Treatment Duration and Patient Experience
17:28 Risks and Side Effects of NSPFA
19:02 Ideal Candidates for NSPFA
22:25 Patient Feedback and Outcomes
29:21 Exploring Treatment Modalities for Thyroid Nodules
31:50 Understanding Nodule Growth and Treatment Challenges
35:06 The Future of NSPFA in Thyroid Care
38:05 Cost and Accessibility of New Treatment Technologies
41:00 Potential for NSPFA in Treating Malignant Lesions
43:40 Advice for Patients with Thyroid Nodules
45:44 Guidance for Clinicians on Adopting New Techniques
48:20 Final Thoughts and Community Impact
55:42 Introduction to the Podcast and Resources
