Minimally Invasive Radiofrequency Ablation for Large Thyroid Toxic Adenoma

Abstract

Background: Most thyroid nodules are benign and do not need intervention. Toxic adenoma and toxic multinodular goiter (MNG) are common causes of hyperthyroidism, second in prevalence only to Graves’ disease. Toxic adenoma and MNG are the result of focal or diffuse hyperplasia of thyroid follicular cells whose functional capacity is independent from regulation by the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). When conservative treatment modalities fail to ensure an euthyroid state, surgical intervention is required, typically surgical left or right thyroid lobectomy. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a new percutaneous treatment option that results in thermal tissue necrosis and fibrosis. As a result of this process, the thyroid nodules shrink.

Keywords

• radiofrequency ablation
• minimally invasive
• thyroid adenoma