Radiofrequency
In radiofrequency ablation, the alternating electrical current applied to the tissue causes ions to move back and forth. The friction generated by this movement produces heat, and this heat destroys tumor cells. Radiofrequency is one of the oldest and most commonly used ablation methods in medicine. Today, it is widely used on cancer patients, especially for tumors in the liver, lung, kidney, and bone. Radiofrequency is also one of the most commonly used ablation methods for distant metastases of thyroid cancer in other organs.
For benign thyroid nodules, radiofrequency ablation was first reported in 2006 by Dr. Kim and later became widely used—particularly in the Far East—by many researchers, especially Dr. Baek. Studies performed on thousands of patients have reported that, similar to laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation reduces nodule volumes by an average of 72%, eliminates symptoms such as swallowing difficulty and shortness of breath, and improves cosmetic appearance.
How is it done?
After the thyroid nodule to be ablated is identified on ultrasound, local anesthesia will be applied to numb the entry site on the skin. Then, under ultrasound guidance, a radiofrequency needle is advanced into the nodule. Once the radiofrequency generator is turned on, the needle is directed to different parts of the nodule so that the entire nodule is exposed to the heat produced by radiofrequency. Similar to laser ablation, the heated (ablated) areas appear white on ultrasound. After the procedure is completed, the radiofrequency needle is removed, and the patient is observed for a few hours before being discharged.
Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment for Thyroid Nodules
When is it used?
Radiofrequency ablation, like laser, is a technique that destroys tissue by heating it. Although it has been widely used on other organs for many years, its use in the thyroid has become increasingly common over the last decade. Similar to laser and alcohol ablation, radiofrequency is primarily used for non-surgical treatment of benign thyroid nodules. However, in recent years, this method has also been tried in thyroid cancers that recur in the neck after surgery, and successful outcomes have been reported. In one study, radiofrequency was shown to have the same success as surgery in controlling recurrent tumors, while having a lower complication rate.
What are its advantages?
Like laser ablation, radiofrequency is performed with a thin needle. It leaves no scar on the skin, is painless, and the patient can go home shortly after the procedure. As with the laser ablation procedure, the complication rate is very low.
CONSULTATION FORM
You can get information on our treatments via phone and e-mail as well as by filling and sending the consultation form below. Please send the reports of your thyroid ultrasound, hormones, scintigraphy and biopsy (if available) via e mail (thyroidgoiter@gmail.com) or whats up ( +90-534-551 0 551). Remember to write clearly your e mail address and phone number so that we can return to you as soon as possible.
Please send separately the results of your thyroid ultrasound, hormones, scintigraphy and biopsy (if available)
Please add the reports of your thyroid ultrasound, hormones, scintigraphy and biopsy (if available)