Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation in Novi
A thyroid nodule is an unusual growth or lump that forms on your thyroid gland at the base of your neck. Thyroid nodules are usually asymptomatic; however, in some cases, they can cause hyper or hypothyroidism, neck pain, voice changes, unpleasant enlargement, and trouble breathing or swallowing.
If you struggle with benign thyroid nodules, Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) may be a treatment option to explore. Associated Endocrinologists in Michigan offers RFA for Novi residents as a way to reduce the size of your nodules and resume your daily activities.
What is Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation?
RFA is a non-surgical procedure used to shrink thyroid nodules by applying an electrical charge to the nodule tissue to generate heat. The heat destroys nodule tissue and reduces the size by 50% to 80% in most cases.
RFA is a minimally invasive procedure and offers many advantages over thyroid nodule surgery. These include:
- Short, outpatient procedure – typically between 15 to 60 minutes
- Little to no scarring
- Leaves thyroid functioning normally
- Highly effective with an average expected shrinkage rate of 50% to 80% over 12 months
- No recovery time needed
- Fewer complications as general anesthesia is not required
Who May Benefit Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation?
If you have thyroid nodules that affect your ability to swallow, breathe or speak, or if they are causing your thyroid to over or under function, you may benefit from RFA. Additionally, if you suffer from goiters or if you were recommended surgery but wish to avoid the invasive procedure, RFA may be a good option.
Those who have thyroid cancer or have not been cleared through FNA biopsies are ineligible for RFA and instead may choose to use RAI or radioactive iodine therapy. In addition, those who cannot stop anticoagulation medications would not be good candidates for RFA.
What to Expect
To perform RFA, a needle is inserted into the thyroid using guidance from ultrasound imaging and heated once it reaches the nodule tissue. You are conscious throughout the procedure, but the doctor will use a local anesthetic to numb your skin before starting. Once complete, RFA should make your nodules shrink over the next several months.
Schedule Your Consultation With Associated Endocrinologists Today
Associated Endocrinologists offer Thyroid Radiofrequency for residents of Novi suffering from enlarged benign thyroid nodules. With over 36 years of experience in the endocrinology field, the doctors at Associated Endocrinologists can help you get back to normal. Contact Associated Endocrinologists today to set up your RFA consultation.