OVERVIEW
Thyroid nodules are lumps of cells that can grow in the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of the neck. Thyroid nodules are relatively common and seen in approximately 30% of adults. In most cases, they are benign, meaning they are not harmful and cause few symptoms. In rare cases, thyroid nodules may become malignant (cancerous).
SYMPTOMS
Small, benign thyroid nodules often do not produce any symptoms. However, if they do grow in size and/or become symptomatic, an individual may experience some of the following:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Goitre (enlargement of the thyroid gland)
- Pain around the base of the neck
- Hoarseness/change in voice
CAUSES/RISK FACTORS
Thyroid nodules are seen most commonly in women of older age. However, there are more specific risk factors, including:
- Family history of thyroid nodules
- X-Ray previously performed on thyroid
- A previous thyroid cancer diagnosis
- Iodine Deficiency
- Thyroiditis (chronic inflammation of the thyroid)
- Hashimoto’s Disease
DIAGNOSIS
An ultrasound scan followed by Fine Needle Aspiration Sampling (FNAC) is done to determine the nature of the nodule (whether it is benign or malignant).
While surgical resection is the standard treatment for malignant nodules, benign nodules are usually monitored and if they grow in size, show abnormal features on an ultrasound scan or cause symptoms, the patient may consider treatment.
OUR TREATMENT
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
- This a minimally invasive technique involving using radiofrequency heatwaves via a special small needle under ultrasound guidance is recently introduced for treating benign thyroid nodules.
- Heat energy is applied to the nodule, causing the destruction of cells from within. The nodules gradually shrink in size or become stable and are smaller in size on follow-up.
- RFA preserves the thyroid tissue adjacent to the nodule
- This procedure is usually performed as a day surgery procedure under light sedation. Patients are generally discharged the same day after monitoring, and there is no surgical scar.
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