Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) in South Carolina
Radiofrequency Ablation of Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules are very common. The nodules can increase in size and can result in the patient developing an enlarged non-cancerous nodule. Symptoms often include trouble swallowing, pressure in the neck, difficulty breathing, and a bulging mass in the neck that is visible.
Traditional Treatment
Traditionally, in the United States, these nodules were managed surgery. Approximately 80% of thyroid surgeries performed in the U.S. are because of an enlarged non-cancerous nodule. Even though thyroid surgery is considered to be a safe procedure, the complications may include: risks of anesthesia, down-time from surgery, scaring, and more.
New Treatment: Radiofrequency Ablation
Dr. Walsh Thomas has begun offering a new technology for the management of these benign thyroid nodules. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of a thyroid nodule is a procedure that can use a safe technique that has been used in healthcare for decades to shrink unwanted tissue. With thousands of patient experiences around the world, nodules have been shown to shrink up to 80%, saving a patient from surgery.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and the pain and discomfort are typically no worse than a regular thyroid needle biopsy. Generally, procedures can take up to 20 minutes, and patients can go home the same day and resume regular activity the next day.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Services FAQ
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a gentle, minimally invasive procedure used to shrink thyroid nodules without surgery. During the treatment, your doctor uses ultrasound to guide a tiny needle into the nodule. Once in place, the needle delivers controlled heat that safely destroys the targeted nodule tissue—without harming the rest of your thyroid.
Following the procedure, over the next several weeks and months, your body naturally breaks down and absorbs the treated nodule, allowing it to shrink and relieving symptoms like pressure, swelling, or trouble swallowing.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) may be a good option for you if you have a noncancerous (benign) thyroid nodule that is causing symptoms or bothering you.
Before RFA can be considered, your thyroid nodule must be confirmed as benign through a biopsy. This step is important to ensure the nodule is safe to treat without surgery.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional thyroid surgery for treating benign thyroid nodules.
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Unlike surgery, RFA does not require an incision or removal of part of the thyroid, which means no visible scar and a much faster recovery.
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RFA is typically performed using local anesthesia, allowing patients to go home the same day and return to normal activities quickly—often within a day or two. Surgery, on the other hand, usually requires general anesthesia, a longer recovery period, and time away from work or daily routines.
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RFA is that it preserves healthy thyroid tissue. Because surgery often removes part or all of the thyroid gland, some patients may need lifelong thyroid hormone medication afterward. With RFA, the thyroid usually continues to function normally.
Overall, RFA offers fewer risks, less downtime, and excellent symptom relief for many patients with benign thyroid nodules—making it an appealing option for those who want to avoid surgery when appropriate
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most people experience minimal discomfort. The pain and discomfort are typically no worse than a regular thyroid needle biopsy.
Most patients return home the same day and can resume non-strenuous activities within a few days or as directed by your doctor.
Hear From Dr. Walsh Thomas
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