Radiofrequency Ablation of Solid, Non-Functional Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid RFA provides a minimally invasive, low risk, efficacious therapy for the treatment of this condition. Thyroid RFA enjoys similar efficacy as surgery, results in similar degrees of patient satisfaction, but does so with a lower risk profile.1,2 While many interventional radiologists will be familiar with thermal ablation in other organs, such as lung, liver, and kidneys, there are some important procedural modifications (namely the “moving shot” technique) which are unique to the neck. Similarly, those that perform ablations will be familiar with the potential for thermal injury to nearby structures and many will also have experience with protective maneuvers such as hydrodissection. However, in the neck, the myriad vital structures (vessels, nerves, trachea, esophagus, etc.) all coursing together in a relatively tight anatomic space, make these considerations of even greater importance and will challenge even experienced operators.