Thyroid Nodule Ablation Service
Patient information
What we do
A specialist interventional radiologist will first consult and examine you in the outpatient clinic to assess your suitability for the procedure. This is based on the nodule size, location and other factors. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic by an interventional radiologist. 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".
Who we care for
The procedure is suitable for patients with symptomatic, benign thyroid nodules as an alternative to surgery (thyroidectomy).
What to expect
There is minimal scarring at the needle insertion site after the procedure. Recovery and return-to-work times are typically shorter than after surgery. Over the 6 to 12 months following treatment, the nodule will shrink in size and for most people will no longer be symptomatic.
Commonly asked questions
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.
Yes. 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.
How to access this clinic
Referral from your GP
You need a referral letter from your GP or medical practitioner to access this service.
Your doctor will need to fax your referral letter to us. We will be in contact with you in clinically recommended times, depending on waiting list length. If there is no waiting list, you will receive an appointment booking letter or we will contact you to arrange a suitable time.
What to bring
For a clinic appointment
- Thyroid ultrasound results
- Thyroid fine needle aspirate (FNA) results
- Records of consultations with other specialists (e.g., endocrinology or surgery)
Clinic times
| Day | Campus | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | The Alfred | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Clinic consultants
- Dr Matthew Lukies: Radiology
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