Quincy Medical Group (QMG) recently announced a new treatment option for thyroid gland nodules called Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation. This non-surgical procedure shrinks the nodules often without compromising thyroid function and helps patients avoid long recovery times.
Thyroid gland nodules are growths or lumps that develop in the thyroid gland. Although relatively common, nodules in the thyroid gland can affect how it performs and cause uncomfortable symptoms for patients. Traditionally, thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine would have been the only treatment options for problematic thyroid nodules. Though both are effective methods, they have been the only options for local patients until now.
QMG Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Physician Paul Conrad, MD, FACS, who performs the procedure, said Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure performed in a clinical outpatient setting outside of the hospital. The primary advantages include an increased likelihood of preservation of thyroid function, the potential of fewer complications, and generally shorter recovery with a quick return to normal activities.
“The procedure essentially heats the tissue it is treating until it destroys it and then the body gradually absorbs the dead tissue over time,” he explained. “The nodule is essentially destroyed from the inside so there are no external scars and because only the diseased tissue is treated the thyroid’s function remains intact at its same level so the patient will not need to take thyroid supplements because of what was done which is more likely the case after a surgical lobectomy.”
Radiofrequency ablation is highly effective for benign thyroid nodules. Depending on the type, nodules shrink anywhere between 60-90% after one year, with approximately 80% on average.
For more information, call the QMG ENT department at (217) 222-6550, ext. 6900.