Minimally invasive therapy of a thyroid nodule by thermoablation / radiofrequency ablation
Radiofrequency ablation: Innovative therapy for thyroid nodules
Minimally invasive treatment of thyroid nodules by RFA
About 20 million people in Germany have one or more thyroid nodules. If symptoms such as nervousness or drowsiness occur, treatment should be given. Many patients with benign nodules who refuse surgery under general anesthesia or radioiodine therapy have recently been able to choose a new treatment method that has already been used successfully in Asia for about 15 years: thermoablation using radiofrequency ablation. This minimally invasive, local procedure destroys the nodal tissue with heat.
Radiofrequency ablation
Minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of thyroid nodules
What is radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat thyroid nodules. It involves the use of high-frequency electrical energy to destroy the nodule. RFA is typically performed under local anesthesia.
The procedure begins with an ultrasound examination to identify the exact location of the nodule. A thin needle is then inserted into the nodule, through which radiofrequency waves are delivered, generating heat that destroys the nodule's cells, causing it to shrink or disappear.
RFA offers several advantages over traditional surgery. It is less invasive, meaning there is no need for large incisions. This results in less pain, a shorter recovery time, and a lower risk of complications. Additionally, RFA is highly precise, minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.
Following RFA, you may experience mild discomfort such as swelling or slight pain in the neck, which usually resolves within a few days. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to alleviate these symptoms.
RFA is a safe and effective treatment option for thyroid nodules. Most patients can quickly resume their normal activities after the procedure. However, regular follow-up examinations are important to ensure successful treatment and monitor for any new nodules.
Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions to ensure a proper recovery. Don't hesitate to ask questions and discuss any concerns with your doctor to gain a better understanding of RFA and its impact on your individual situation.
(c) http://www.kroener-medical.de/produkte/tumordiagnostik/celon-power.html
Advantages of thermoablation
- Treatment of the node only under local anesthesia
- Short therapy duration: only a few minutes per treatment
- Protection and preservation of healthy thyroid tissue
- Significant reduction of the nodule volume already after 3 months
- Good cosmetic result
- Fast return to a normal daily routine
- Usually no (permanent) medication required after the procedure
- Treatment can be repeated if necessary
Appointments for the planning of a treatment of a thyroid nodule by means of thermal ablation can be made by calling +49 201 536 990 80.
Interesting links/videos:
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Patienten-Aufklärungsbogen