Ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for benign thyroid nodules is safe enough and works well enough for use in the NHS.

Before this procedure is used, the thyroid nodule must be tested to make sure it is benign (not cancerous). A thin needle is used to take a sample of tissue from the nodule, to check for cancer cells. Ultrasound‑guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation should not be done if the nodule is cancerous.

Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of ultrasound guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for benign thyroid nodules is adequate to support the use of this procedure provided that standard arrangements are in place for clinical governance, consent and audit.