top of page
< Back

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.

Cesareo, Roberto, et al. “Laser Ablation Versus Radiofrequency Ablation for Thyroid Nodules: 12-Month Results of a Randomized Trial (LARA II Study).” The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, vol. 106, no. 6, May 2021, pp. 1692–701. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1210/clinem/dgab102.

This study explores the use of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or related thermal techniques for treating benign thyroid nodules. It highlights clinical outcomes, safety, and effectiveness relevant to both patients and insurance providers. 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).

bottom of page