RESUMEN

Introduction: The detection rate of benign thyroid nodules is increasing every year, with some affected patients experiencing symptoms. Ultrasound-guided thermal ablation can reduce the volume of nodules to alleviate symptoms. As the degree and speed of lesion absorption vary greatly between individuals, an effective model to predict curative effect after ablation is lacking. This study aims to predict the efficacy of ultrasound-guided thermal ablation for benign thyroid nodules using machine learning and explain the characteristics affecting the nodule volume reduction ratio (VRR). Design: Prospective study. Patients: The clinical and ultrasonic characteristics of patients who underwent ultrasound-guided thermal ablation of benign thyroid nodules at our hospital between January 2020 and January 2023 were recorded. Measurements: Six machine learning models (logistic regression, support vector machine, decision tree, random forest, eXtreme Gradient Boosting [XGBoost], and Light Gradient Boosting Machine [LGBM]) were constructed to predict efficacy; the effectiveness of each model was evaluated, and the optimal model selected. SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) was used to visualize the decision process of the optimal model and analyze the characteristics affecting the VRR. Results: In total, 518 benign thyroid nodules were included: 356 in the satisfactory group (VRR ≥70% 1 year after operation) and 162 in the unsatisfactory group. The optimal XGBoost model predicted satisfactory efficacy with 78.9% accuracy, 88.8% precision, 79.8% recall rate, an F1 value of 0.84 F1, and an area under the curve of 0.86. The top five characteristics that affected VRRs were the proportion of solid components < 20%, initial nodule volume, blood flow score, peripheral blood flow pattern, and proportion of solid components 50-80%. Conclusions: The models, based on interpretable machine learning, predicted the VRR after thermal ablation for benign thyroid nodules, which provided a reference for preoperative treatment decisions.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of thyroid fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) using a novel-cell preserving matrix called Cytomatrix in improving diagnostic accuracy for thyroid nodules. Materials and methods: Fifty patients undergoing thyroidectomy were enrolled and FNAC was performed on the excised thyroid glands, with the collected sample being placed on the Cytomatrix. The results were compared with histopathological analysis, and diagnostic performance was assessed statistically. Results: Cytomatrix demonstrated an accuracy of 96%, sensitivity of 84.61%, and specificity of 100%. Concordance between cytological and histopathological findings highlighted Cytomatrix's potential to enhance thyroid FNAC accuracy. Conclusion: FNAC using Cytomatrix shows promise in improving diagnostic accuracy for thyroid nodules. Its application, marked by faster processing and efficient resource utilization, coupled with the preservation of cellular architecture, holds considerable potential in enhancing cytological diagnosis, thus optimizing patient management strategies.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: Proper management of subcentimeter thyroid nodules remains challenging for both clinicians and patients. Conducting extensive sonographic research using a safe and inexpensive tool for identifying thyroid nodules is necessary. The aim of this study was to identify whether having the highest-risk ultrasound (US) characteristic suggests that US-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of subcentimeter nodules is more appropriate for the identification of malignancy than active surveillance (AS) or surgery. METHODS: The data of patients with highly suspicious subcentimeter thyroid nodules and US characteristic data who underwent surgery were retrospectively examined. RESULTS: Among a total of 556 subcentimeter nodules, 223 (40.1%) were benign, and 333 (59.9%) were malignant, with a mean maximal nodule size of 8.1 mm. In addition to age younger than 45 years, several US features were significantly associated with malignancy: irregular margins, the presence of microcalcifications, and taller-than-wide shapes (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis also revealed that a taller-than-wide shape (OR = 8.988, P = 0.0015) was an independent factor associated with malignancy in subcentimeter thyroid nodules. The diagnostic performance of preoperative FNA was classified as a malignancy, with a sensitivity of 98.4%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 76.9%. CONCLUSIONS: This is one of the few reports based on actual data of the most suspicious US features in subcentimeter thyroid nodules. A taller-than-wide shape US feature is most significantly associated with malignancy. FNA is a simple, accurate, and reliable preoperative method for diagnosing malignant subcentimeter thyroid nodules with highly suspicious US characteristics. AS was less appropriate than FNA for subcentimeter nodules with a taller-than-wide shape, especially in patients ≤ 45 years of age.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Introduction: Thyroid nodules are extremely common being detected by ultrasonography in up to 67% of the population, with current surgical tenet maintaining that lobectomy is required for large symptomatic benign nodules or autonomously functionally nodules resulting in a risk of hypothyroidism or recurrent laryngeal nerve injury even in high volume centres. The introduction of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has allowed thermal ablation of both benign and autonomously functioning thyroid nodules with minimal morbidity. The moving shot technique is the most well-established technique in performing RFA of thyroid nodules, and has proven to be safe, efficacious, accurate and successful amongst experienced clinicians. The purpose of this article to propose the use of a novel guide when performing RFA of thyroid nodules in clinical practice utilizing the moving shot technique. Methods: The technique proposed of RFA involves the use of a 10MHz linear ultrasound probe attached to an 18G guide which provides robust in line visualisation of a 7cm or 10cm radiofrequency probe tip (STARmed, Seoul, Korea) utilizing the trans isthmic moving shot technique. A geometric analysis of the guide has been illustrated diagrammatically. Results: The use of an 18G radiofrequency probe guide (CIVCO Infiniti Plus™ Needle Guide) maintains in line visualisation of the radiofrequency probe over a cross-sectional area up to 28cm2, facilitating efficient and complete ablation of conceptual subunits during RFA of thyroid nodules. Discussion: Radiofrequency ablation of thyroid nodules can be performed safely and effectively using the novel radiofrequency probe guide proposed which we believe potentially improves both accuracy and overall efficiency, along with operator confidence in maintaining visualisation of the probe tip, and hence we believe provides a valuable addition to the armamentarium of clinicians wishing to embark on performing RFA of thyroid nodules.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous thermal ablation is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment for benign thyroid nodules, which is now widely used in the world. Studies have found that some preoperative factors played an important role in the outcome of thermal ablation. This paper mainly reviews the various factors affecting the efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous thermal ablation in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules to provide a variety of perspectives for the clinical and to promote the postoperative outcome of patients.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Robotic thyroidectomy is gaining popularity, yet its role in completion thyroidectomy remains unclear. We aimed to compare robotic vs conventional completion thyroidectomy for thyroid nodules. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed patients undergoing completion thyroidectomy from 2010-2020, either by conventional open technique (n = 87) or a robotic remote-access approach (n = 44). Outcomes were compared between groups. RESULTS: A total of 131 patients were included. The robotic cohort was younger (45.3 ± 14.0 vs 55.5 ± 14.5 years, P < 0.001) with a lower BMI (25.9 ± 5.5 vs 33.7 ± 7.8 kg/m2, P < 0.001). Operative time was longer for robotic procedures (139 min vs 99 min, P < 0.001). Hospital stay was shorter after robotic surgery, with 25% discharged the same day as compared to 5.7% in the open thyroidectomy cohort (P = 0.006). Overall rates of complication were comparable (P = 0.65). Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy occurred in 4.6% of patients, which was similar between both cohorts (P = 0.66). CONCLUSION: Robotic completion thyroidectomy appears safe and effective, achieving shorter hospitalization than conventional open approaches despite longer operative times. Appropriate patient selection and surgical technique optimization are key. Larger prospective studies should investigate costs and long-term patient-reported outcomes.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the incidence of thyroid nodules has increased significantly. There are various ways to treat thyroid nodules, and ablation therapy is one of the important ways to treat thyroid nodules. However, there are many complications and deficiencies in the current ablation treatment of thyroid nodules, especially the incomplete ablation of thyroid cancer nodules, which limits the further application of ablation technology. In this paper, we report two cases of incomplete ablation of thyroid nodules, one of which underwent surgical treatment due to anxiety after ablation, and the postoperative pathology confirmed that there was still residual papillary thyroid carcinoma, and the other patient underwent an operation after ablation, but visited our medical institution again due to cervical lymph node metastasis in a short period of time, and after radical cervical lymph node dissection, pathology confirmed multiple cervical lymph node metastasis. Radionuclide therapy was performed after surgery, and two patients are currently receiving endocrine suppression therapy, and their condition is stable with no signs of recurrence. CONCLUSION: The incomplete ablation of thyroid cancer nodules limits the development of ablation therapy, making ablation treatment a double-edged sword. Guidelines and expert consensus can guide their development, but they need to evolve with the times, and a multidisciplinary diagnostic team can help screen the most suitable patients. Only by using this technology more standardly, using the most appropriate technology, and treating the most suitable patients, can benefit more and more patients.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Background: Longer follow-up after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of benign thyroid nodules is needed to understand regrowth and other causes of delayed surgery and long-term complications. Methods: This retrospective study included consecutive patients treated with RFA for symptomatic benign nonfunctioning thyroid nodules between March 2007 and December 2010. RFA was performed according to the standard protocol. We followed up patients at 1, 6, and 12 months, then yearly, until August 2022, and calculated the volume reduction ratio (VRR) at each follow-up. We assessed the incidence of regrowth according to three published criteria, delayed surgery, and complications. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate the cumulative incidence of regrowth, and univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for regrowth. Results: This study included 421 patients (mean age, 47 ± 13 years; 372 women) with 456 nodules (mean volume, 21 ± 23 mL). The median follow-up period was 90 months (interquartile range, 24-143 months). The mean VRR was 81% at 2 years, 90% at 5 years, and 94% at ≥10 years. Overall regrowth was noted in 12% (53/456) of nodules and was treated with repeat RFA (n = 33) or surgery (n = 4) or left under observation (n = 16). Thyroid nodules with ≥20 mL initial volume had significantly higher risk of regrowth compared with nodules with <10 mL initial volume (hazard ratio, 2.315 [95% confidence interval, 1.183-4.530]; p = 0.014 on multivariable Cox regression analysis). Delayed surgery was performed in 6% (26/421) of patients because of regrowth and/or persistent symptoms (n = 4) or newly detected thyroid tumors (n = 22), one benign and 21 malignant. The overall complication rate was 2.4% (10/421), with no procedure-related deaths or long-term complications. Conclusion: RFA is safe and effective for treating benign thyroid nodules, with a high VRR at long-term follow-up. Regular follow-up after initial success is warranted because of the possibility of regrowth of ablated nodules and the need for delayed surgery in some patients.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate a prediction model utilizing clinical and ultrasound (US) data for preoperative assessment of efficacy following US-guided thermal ablation (TA) in patients with benign thyroid nodules (BTNs) ≥ 2 cm. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively assessed 962 patients with 1011 BTNs who underwent TA at four tertiary centers between May 2018 and July 2022. Ablation efficacy was categorized into therapeutic success (volume reduction rate [VRR] > 50%) and non-therapeutic success (VRR ≤ 50%). We identified independent factors influencing the ablation efficacy of BTNs ≥ 2 cm in the training set using multivariate logistic regression. On this basis, a prediction model was established. The performance of model was further evaluated by discrimination (area under the curve [AUC]) in the validation set. RESULTS: Of the 1011 nodules included, 952 (94.2%) achieved therapeutic success at the 12-month follow-up after TA. Independent factors influencing VRR > 50% included sex, nodular composition, calcification, volume, and largest diameter (all p < 0.05). The prediction equation was established as follows: p = 1/1 + Exp∑[8.113 -2.720 × (if predominantly solid) -2.790 × (if solid) -1.275 × (if 10 mL < volume ≤ 30mL) -1.743 × (if volume > 30 mL) -1.268 × (if with calcification) -2.859 × (if largest diameter > 3 cm) +1.143 × (if female)]. This model showed great discrimination, with AUC of 0.908 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.868-0.947) and 0.850 (95% CI: 0.748-0.952) in the training and validation sets, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A clinical prediction model was successfully developed to preoperatively predict the therapeutic success of BTNs larger than 2 cm in size following US-guided TA. This model aids physicians in evaluating treatment efficacy and devising personalized prognostic plans.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an alternative modality for thyroid nodules (TNs) and many studies have also confirmed its favorable efficacy and safety. The scope of RFA increases in clinical practice and the aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of RFA. Methods: We conducted a prospective study to evaluate the efficacy of RFA for thyroid nodules between January 2017 and December 2022 at our institution. We assessed the change in nodal volume, volume reduction ratio (VRR), technique effective (TE) rate, complete ablation (CA) rate, and nodal regrowth rate and time after RFA. Results: We performed RFA for 1703 patients with TNs between January 2017 and December 2022, of which a total of 970 eligible patients were enrolled in the study. The preoperative volume of TNs was 6.23 ± 8.11ml, with 821 benign and 149 malignant nodules. The post-RFA TE and adjusted TE rate were 80% and 88.8%, respectively. CA was achieved in 145 (14.9%) patients with a mean time of 18.32± 12.98 months; nodal regrowth occurred in 15 (1.5%) patients with a mean time of 29.80 ± 12.47 months. TNs volume and VRR changed significantly at years 1 and 2 after RFA and stabilized after 5 years. A serious postoperative adverse event occurred in one patient with cervical sympathetic chain injury resulting in Horner's syndrome. A transient or permanent damage of the recurrent laryngeal nerve could not be evaluated due to the lack of postoperative laryngoscopy, and this is a significant limitation of the study. Conclusion: The expanded RFA indications were also effective for TNs, with no significant change in long-term efficacy.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

INTRODUCTION: Some epidemiological data suggest that there may be an inverse relationship between cholesterol levels and the risk of thyroid cancer in the overall population. The present study was aimed to evaluate the lipid profile specifically in subjects with Bethesda category IV thyroid nodules, and compare whether there were any differences between those with benign and malignant nodules. METHODS: Single-centre, retrospective study on 204 subjects treated by partial or total thyroidectomy for excision of a Bethesda category IV thyroid nodule, who had undergone a blood lipid profile test in the 12 months prior to surgery. In addition to lipid measures, other demographic, clinical, biochemical and ultrasound data were collected. RESULTS: Seventy-five subjects (36.8%) were diagnosed with thyroid carcinoma in the definitive histopathological examination. Patients with thyroid cancer had lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and non-HDL-cholesterol than subjects with benign thyroid diseases. There were no differences in HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides or total cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio. There were no differences either between groups in other clinical, biochemical and ultrasound variables, including the use of lipid-lowering drugs. In multivariate analysis, only LDL-cholesterol was independently associated with malignancy. Subjects with follicular carcinoma showed the lowest cholesterol levels, while those with papillary carcinoma had intermediate values between the group with follicular carcinoma and the group with benign thyroid diseases. CONCLUSIONS: In subjects with cytologically indeterminate Bethesda category IV thyroid nodules, levels of total cholesterol, non-HDL-cholesterol and, particularly, LDL-cholesterol are lower among those with malignant nodules.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data Systems (TIRADSs) have demonstrated high performance in risk stratification of thyroid nodules (TNs). However, further improvements are needed in view of the ongoing project of an international TIRADS. Even if thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) measurement is traditionally used to assess the thyroid function, several papers have reported that higher TSH levels are associated with the presence of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). The present study aimed to investigate the role of TSH levels as improvement factor of American College of Radiology (ACR-), European Thyroid Association (EU-), and Korean Society (K-)TIRADS. METHODS: Patients undergoing thyroidectomy were reviewed and TNs were re-assessed according to TIRADSs. Different TSH subgroups were attained. Histology was the reference standard. DTC risk of relapse was assessed according to American Thyroid Association guidelines. RESULTS: The study series included 97 patients with 39.2% cancer prevalence. ACR-, EU-, and K-TIRADS indicated fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in 78.9%, 81.6%, and 92.1% of cases, respectively. All high-risk DTC had FNAC indication according to the three TIRADSs. The cancer rate was significantly lower in patients with TSH<0.4 mIU/L (P=0.04). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the best TSH cut-off to detect DTC patient was >1.3 mIU/L with Area Under the Curve (AUC)=0.70. Combining TSH data with TIRADS, the sensitivity of ACR-, EU-, and K-TIRADS increased to 92.1% 89.5%, and 94.7%, respectively. Conversely, the rate of unnecessary FNAC raised. At multivariate analysis, gender, TSH, and TIRADS were independent predictors of cancer. CONCLUSIONS: Even if TIRADSs are strongly reliable to stratify the risk of malignancy of TNs, measuring TSH can further improve our sensitivity in detecting DTC.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

As the utilization of high-resolution imaging modalities, such as ultrasound, becomes increasingly prevalent, there has been a swift rise in the detection rates of malignant thyroid nodules (MTC). Surgery remains the cornerstone of standard treatment for these nodules. However, the advent and evolution of thermal ablation (TA) techniques, encompassing radiofrequency ablation, laser ablation, and microwave ablation, have emerged as a novel therapeutic avenue for patients with MTC, particularly for those deemed unsuitable for surgery due to high risks or for those who refuse surgery. Presently, TA has been validated as an efficacious and safe intervention for both benign thyroid nodules and a subset of MTC. An expanding body of research has been dedicated to broadening the applicability of TA, initially from recurrent thyroid cancer and lymph nodes to now encompass isolated papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (PTMC) alongside a comprehensive exploration into the expanded parameters such as size, number, and location of PTMC, and its applicability in other types of thyroid cancer. This review provides a detailed synthesis of the clinical evidence about the use of TA in the management of MTC, as endorsed by current guidelines. It further delves into the ongoing research efforts aimed at extending its indications and discusses the prospective implications and challenges of integrating TA into the clinical management paradigms for MTC.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common and prevalent cancers all around the world with a prevalence of 3%. Approximately twenty percent of patients present with metastasis at the time of diagnosis, while late metastasis in renal cell carcinoma is a quite familiar phenomenon. Head and neck and particularly thyroid metastasis from RCC are rare events. CASE: We present a case of a 75-year-old woman who developed thyroid nodules 13 years after nephrectomy for RCC. Diagnosis confirmed metastatic RCC through clinical history, histomorphology, and immunohistochemistry. Imaging studies revealed thyroid lesions without metastasis in other organs. The patient underwent total thyroidectomy and remains symptom-free after 2 years of follow-up. CONCLUSION: This case highlights the importance of considering metastatic lesions is crucial in managing thyroid nodules in patients with a history of cancer, particularly RCC.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Objective. The intend of the present study was to assess the diagnostic performance of strain elastography in investigating the thyroid nodule malignancy taking the surgical biopsy as a gold standard reference test. Methods. The study included 120 patients with 123 thyroid nodules, of which 67 had total thyroidectomy. The American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data Systems (ACR-TIRADS) were evaluated for all nodules. All suspicious nodules were referred for a fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) if they fulfilled the required size. Strain elastography was performed for each suspicious nodule. Ultrasound-guided FNAC was performed for all suspicious nodules. Total thyroidectomy was performed in those whom the suspicious nodules were proven by FNAC. Results. Strain ratio had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and diagnostic accuracy of 84%, 81%, 95%, 85%, and 84%, respectively, with a cut point 1.96. Elasticity score had a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and diagnostic accuracy of 100%, 80%, 95%, 85% and 87%, respectively, with a cut point 0.96. The elasticity score had a statistically significantly odds ratio for detecting the benignity 3.9 C. I (1.6-9.3). Conclusion. Strain elastography has a high diagnostic performance in detecting the malignant as well as benign nodules, thus it can limit the rate of unneeded FNAC or surgery especially among B3 and B4 groups with indeterminate cytology.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

The incidence of thyroid nodules is rising annually. Surgical treatment is effective, but often results in significant trauma, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, hypoparathyroidism, and other complications. Recent years have seen significant breakthroughs in thyroid nodule ablation for treating thyroid diseases, although its application remains controversial. The objective was to review the development history and current research status of thyroid nodule ablation to provide a reference for future studies. The literature on thyroid nodule ablation was reviewed, analysing its advantages and disadvantages. The therapeutic effect of thyroid nodule ablation in treating benign thyroid lesions is noteworthy, but issues such as lax treatment indications and excessive medical treatment persist. Initial success has been achieved in treating thyroid malignant lesions, particularly papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC). However, the curative effect requires further follow-up verification.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

PURPOSE: In this retrospective, observational study we aim to compare the outcomes of the RFA treatment of benign thyroid nodules, carried out respectively with the standard fixed-needle approach (FTN) and the adjustable-tip needle technique (ATN), considered a more tailored, quicker and easier technical approach. METHODS: We enrolled 36 patients who underwent RFA treatment of symptomatic, benign, thyroid nodule, 18 with the ATN and 18 with the FTN approach, respectively. Data about absolute volume reduction, volume reduction rate (VRR) and success rate (defined as VRR ≥ 50%), after 1, 3 and 6 months of follow-up were compared. RESULTS: Our study suggested no substantial difference between the approaches, up to 6 months of follow-up, both in terms of absolute reduction (p = 0.27) and VRR (p = 0.14). These results were confirmed when the success rates, both in terms of 50%-reduction (p = 0.12) and absolute reduction (p = 0.42), was considered. Only at the 6-month evaluation, the FTN procedure showed a better success rate, yet without statistical significance (88.9% vs. 61.1%, p = 0.12). No difference emerged both in terms of patients' satisfaction and safety. CONCLUSION: Our small experience suggested no substantial difference between ATN and FTN, in terms of outcomes. On the other hand, ATN was considered to be more straightforward and could consequently allow for a shorter operator learning curve.

Asunto(s)

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Objective: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging non-surgical treatment for benign thyroid nodules (BTN). Despite its proven safety profile, data on the learning curve (LC) required to achieve proficiency are still lacking. Materials and methods: The first 179 RFA procedures performed by a single operator in patients with non-functioning BTN were retrospectively analyzed. Six-month nodule volume reduction rate (VRR) ≥ 50% was regarded as reflection of proficiency. Multiple linear regression analysis has been performed to determine the relationship between the VRR and clinical variables. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) charts were plotted to assess LCs for all consecutive procedures and in relation to basal nodule size. In details, Group 1 (G1): 57 patients with small nodules (<10 ml); Group 2 (G2): 87 patients with intermediate nodules (10 - 25 ml); Group 3 (G3): 35 patients with large size (> 25 ml). Results: LC of all 179 procedures showed 3 phases: initial learning (1-39 procedures); consolidation (40-145 procedures); and experienced period (146-179 procedures). For G1 and G2 proficiency is achieved starting from the 10th procedure within the group (or 37th considering consecutively all procedures) and from the 59th procedure within the group (or 116th considering consecutively all procedures), respectively. LC of G3 did not detect operator proficiency. Conclusion: Specific LCs exist concerning the basal size of the nodule treated with RFA. In nodules with baseline volume > 25 ml suboptimal VRR has to be expected. Previously achieved experience on small-intermediate nodules does not seem to provide advantages in terms of higher VRR in the treatment of large nodules. Other potential and non-modifiable factors likely play a key role in the final volume reduction independently from the increased skill of the operator.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offers a minimally invasive solution for benign, autonomously functioning (AFTN), and malignant thyroid nodules. The technique utilizes high-frequency alternating current to induce coagulative necrosis, effectively destroying target tissue. RFA is performed in the outpatient setting with local anesthesia and sonographic guidance. RFA is effective in producing substantial volume reduction rates in benign nodules and is emerging as a favorable option in AFTN and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. RFA's advantages include lower complication rates, minimal scarring, and improved quality-of-life outcomes compared to surgery. However, its efficacy in larger and recurrent malignancies requires further investigation.

Asunto(s)