Laser Ablation Versus Radiofrequency Ablation for Thyroid Nodules: 12-Month Results of a Randomized Trial (LARA II Study)

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) seems to achieve a significantly larger nodule volume reduction rate (VRR) than laser ablation (LA) in benign nonfunctioning thyroid nodules (BNTNs). Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of both treatments at 12-month follow-up in patients with solid or predominantly solid BNTN. Methods: This was a single-center, 12-month, randomized, superiority, open-label, parallel-group trial conducted in an outpatient clinic. Sixty patients with a solitary BNTN or dominant nodule characterized by pressure symptoms/cosmetic problems were randomly assigned (1:1 ratio) to receive either a single session of RFA or LA. Twenty-9 patients per group completed the study. The main outcome measures were VRR and proportion of nodules with more than 50% reduction (technical success rate).