The efficacy of ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of papillary thyroid carcinoma

Objective: This study compared the clinical value of ultrasound (US)-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and conventional surgical treatment for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTMC). Methodology: This retrospective cohort study included clinical data of PTMC patients who underwent routine surgical procedures or US-guided RFA treatment at Xinchang County People's Hospital between April 2023 to July 2024. Perioperative status (surgical duration, intraoperative blood loss, length of hospital stay), changes in the levels of thyroid-related hormones and inflammatory factors and incidence of complications were compared. Results: A total of 125 patients met the criteria for this study. Among them, 60 patients underwent US-guided RFA (RFA group) and 65 underwent routine surgical procedures (surgical group). RFA was associated with better perioperative status than conventional surgery (P<0.05). After the surgery, the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in both groups increased compared to preoperative levels and were significantly higher in the surgical group compared to the RFA group. The levels of free thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) decreased compared to preoperative levels and were considerably lower in the surgical group than in the RFA group (P<0.05). Postoperative levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor - α (TNF - α) in both groups demonstrated a significant increase compared to preoperative level and were markedly higher in the surgical group compared to the RFA group (P<0.05). RFA was associated with a significantly lower incidence of complications compared to conventional surgery (5.00% vs 16.92%, respectively) (P<0.05). Conclusions: US-guided RFA for treating PTMC is more effective than conventional surgical procedures and is associated with better perioperative status and levels of thyroid-related hormones, lower inflammatory response and lower incidence of complications.