Radiofrequency Ablation in West Bloomfield
Thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an FDA-approved minimally invasive procedure to shrink your thyroid nodules. Previously, problems with thyroid nodules could only be resolved with surgical removal of the nodules.
Associated Endocrinologist is proud to offer this procedure to patients in Michigan. Our team of physicians are Board Certified in Endocrinology, completing education and fellowships in schools throughout Michigan, including Henry Ford Hospital. We understand the challenges thyroid patients like you face. If you’re suffering from thyroid nodules, we can help determine if Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation treatment is right for you.
How Does Thyroid RFA Work?
All radiofrequency ablation uses an alternating electrical current to heat and agitate tissue with a thin needle-like probe. For Thyroid RFA, the needle is placed into the thyroid, and heat produced at the tip of the probe destroys the tissue of your thyroid nodule.
Once the tissue is destroyed, your thyroid nodule shrinks and alleviates your symptoms. The size of your nodules gradually shrinks over the next few months.
Who Should Get Thyroid RFA?
Thyroid RFA treats patients who have benign thyroid nodules. If your thyroid nodules are causing you pain or you’re experiencing other symptoms, you may benefit from this procedure.
Thyroid nodules can cause goiters and compressive problems like difficulty swallowing and changes to your voice. Their large size may cause cosmetic issues you want to resolve. Or you may have a toxic nodule that is producing too much thyroid hormone, causing hyperthyroidism.
If your doctor has recommended surgery to remove your thyroid nodules, you’re a candidate for Thyroid RFA. Patients who cannot safely undergo surgical removal or patients that would prefer a minimally invasive procedure should talk to their doctor about RFA.
How is a Thyroid RFA Performed?
You’ll be awake for this procedure, laying on your back with your head and neck supported by a pillow. You’ll be able to talk to your doctor and breathe comfortably through the entire procedure.
Your doctor administers a local anesthetic in the area surrounding your thyroid gland so you won’t feel any pain. Your doctor will use an ultrasound transducer to see images of your thyroid and guide the RFA probe into the right spot.
The RFA probe is a thin needle with an electrode at the tip. Once the probe is inserted into your thyroid nodule, your doctor begins sending electrical currents through the probe. The electrode will move around your thyroid during the procedure to properly ablate your thyroid nodules.
Your Thyroid RFA procedure is short, taking anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes depending on the size and number of your thyroid nodules. Recovery is quick, and you can resume your normal activities immediately.
Associated Endocrinologists Offers Thyroid RFA
If you’re experiencing pain or other symptoms because of your thyroid nodules, consider undergoing radiofrequency ablation instead of surgery. Thyroid patients in the West Bloomfield area can contact Associated Endocrinologists.
Our practice offers telehealth and in-person consultations. We can help you determine if Thyroid RFA is the right treatment for you. Book your appointment today.