Effect of ultrasound guided radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of non malignant thyroid nodules

Objective To investigate the clinical effects of ultrasound guided radiofrequency ablation on the treatment of different types of non malignant thyroid nodules. Methods A total of 203 patients with non malignant thyroid nodules (432 nodules) confirmed by biopsy cell pathology were treated by ultrasound guided radiofrequency ablation. Ablation results (maximum diameter of nodule and the volume reduction rate) were observed and recorded at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after ablation. Results Two hundred and three patients all successfully received completed radiofrequency ablation, with no severe injury or complications. Among the 203 patients, 15 cases had intraoperative pain, 47 cases had intraoperative blood pressure increase with different intensity and were cured after symptomatic treatment to complete the operation; 4 cases had short-term hoarseness after operation and recovered completely within 3 months. Before ablation, the maximum diameter of nodule was (2.97±0.92) cm, and maximum volume was (8.89±3.04)cm3; nodule volume gradually reduced 3, 6, 9, 12 months after ablation treatment, and he average volume was (4.86±4.02)cm3, (3.01±2.84)cm3, (2.12±1.51)cm3, (1.55±1.40)cm3, respectively. Ablation effects on patients with high proportion of cystic nodules was better than that of patients with low proportion of cystic proportion. Conclusions Ultrasound guided radiofrequency ablation is a reliable treatment method for non malignant thyroid nodules, which is safe and scarless. Key words: Ultrasound guided radiofrequency ablation; Thyroid nodules; Treatment effect