Thyroid Nodule Ablation Service
Ultrasound guided Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Thyroid nodule ablation is a treatment for symptomatic, benign thyroid nodules. It is for patients with nodules that cause symptoms like swallowing discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the neck. We use a treatment called ‘ablation’ which aims shrink nodules as an alternative to surgery.
How it works
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic by specialised interventional radiologists. We use ultrasound to insert a small needle into the thyroid nodule. Heat energy is then applied to the nodule which destroys it, causing it to break down and shrink. This technique is called ‘ablation’.
There is minimal scarring at the needle insertion site, it is typically a low risk and recovery & return-to-work times are shorter than surgical procedures.
Over the 6 to 12 months following treatment, the nodule will shrink in size and for most people will no longer be symptomatic.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Most patients are able to be discharged the same day, after 4 to 6 hours of observation and recovery.
Yes. A friend or family member needs to collect you from the hospital.
No. Thyroid nodule ablation typically has minimal pain and is performed awake under local anaesthetic for safety reasons.
You need to be referred to us by your surgeon, endocrinologist, or GP.
There is normally no out-of-pocket cost for public eligible patients.