Long-Term Outcomes Following Thermal Ablation of Benign Thyroid Nodules as an Alternative to Surgery: The Importance of Controlling Regrowth
10.3803/EnM.2019.34.2.117
- Author:
Jung Suk SIM
1
;
Jung Hwan BAEK
Author Information
1. Department of Radiology, Withsim Clinic, Seongnam, Korea.
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Thyroid nodule;
Ablation
- MeSH:
Catheter Ablation;
Follow-Up Studies;
Laser Therapy;
Thyroid Gland;
Thyroid Nodule
- From:Endocrinology and Metabolism
2019;34(2):117-123
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Thermal ablation (TA) procedures, such as radiofrequency ablation and laser ablation, are used for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules. Short-term studies (<2 years) have demonstrated that TA is an effective and safe procedure to improve cosmetic or symptomatic problems. However, studies including a longer follow-up period show that treated thyroid nodules can increase in size after 2 to 3 years. Several studies suggest that this results from regrowth at the undertreated nodule margins. Here, we review current data on regrowth after TA and describe factors related to it and possible approaches to prevent it.
