Microwave Ablation
Laser Ablation
Radiofrequency Ablation
Alcohol Ablation
Ablation is a non-surgical treatment option for benign thyroid nodules. Within months, the nodule shrinks by 85–90% and becomes inactive, while the thyroid gland itself is preserved.
This minimally invasive procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance through a needle-sized entry point. The microwave energy delivered into the nodule generates heat, causing necrosis (cell death). The body then naturally removes the dead tissue, leading to significant shrinkage of the nodule. It can be applied to both solid and cystic nodules.
Its effectiveness and safety have been well established and it has been used successfully for many years in the non-surgical treatment of various tumors. In our own studies, we have demonstrated that this therapy is safe, effective, and does not harm the thyroid gland.
Why Ablation / NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT?
No hospitalization is required, procedure and recovery time are very short (patients can usually resume daily life the next day).
No general anesthesia is needed.
Complication rates are much lower compared to surgery or alternative methods.
One of the most important advantages is that the thyroid gland is preserved – only the nodule is targeted. Thyroid function remains intact, and hormone replacement is not required.
No scars or cosmetic issues (excellent cosmetic outcome).
Who is Eligible?
Patients with one or more of the symptoms mentioned
Those with cosmetic concerns due to the nodule
Nodules that continue to enlarge during follow-up
Patients with anxiety about possible cancer development in a nodule
How is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia. With ultrasound guidance, a fine needle is placed directly into the nodule through the skin. The needle is connected to a generator that delivers microwave, radiofrequency, or laser energy. This energy induces ablation, destroying the targeted tissue. The ablated tissue is gradually absorbed by the body, and the nodule shrinks and disappears. Patients are observed for a few hours and discharged the same day, resuming daily activities the following day.
Follow-Up After the Procedure
Nodules are monitored by ultrasound at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Studies and our publications show shrinkage rates of 50% at 1 month, 40–60% at 3 months, 60–80% at 6 months, and 80–95% at 12 months. In some patients, the reduction may be less, and in such cases, a second session can be performed between the 3rd and 6th months.
What Are the Risks?
Complication rates in minimally invasive procedures are very low, and most are minor, not requiring treatment. With the use of thinner needles and advanced techniques, microwave ablation has surpassed many other methods. The most commonly reported complication in the literature is temporary nerve injury, which is extremely rare. Very rarely, bleeding or infection may occur.
Thyroid Nodule Ablation Techniques
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Delivers high-frequency energy into the nodule via a fine needle.
Generates heat that shrinks nodule tissue.
Microwave Ablation (MWA)
Works similarly to RFA but uses microwave energy.
Can reach higher temperatures in a shorter time.
Recently has become the most preferred and effective technique.
Laser Ablation (LA)
Laser light is delivered into the nodule via thin needles.
Energy destroys the tissue, reducing nodule size.
Alcohol Ablation (PEI – Percutaneous Ethanol Injection)
Alcohol is injected into the nodule.
Particularly effective for cystic (fluid-filled) nodules.
