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Complications of RFA for Thyroid Nodules: Prevention and Management

  • ENDOCRINE: Radiofrequency Ablation for Thyroid and Parathyroid Pathology (JO Russell and CF Sinclair, Section Editors)
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Abstract

Purpose of the Review

This review will summarize the various complications of RFA for thyroid nodules as well as preventative and management strategies that can be used when faced with these adverse events.

Recent Findings

Although widely perceived to be less invasive and a potentially safer option than surgery, a broad spectrum of complications have been reported in recent years, including nerve damage, nodule rupture, permanent hypothyroidism, and needle tracking seeding. Complications occur at a rate ranging from 0.0–16.7%. Understanding the complications that arise during treatment is essential in conducting safe and effective ablation therapy.

Summary

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has become an increasingly popular alternative to surgery for thyroid nodules. RFA has been consistently shown to be safe and effective for treatment. While complications can occur, they are seldom life-threatening. Understanding the minor and major complications that arise during treatment is essential in conducting safe and effective ablation therapy.

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Funding

Dr. Kuo reports grants from the American Thyroid Association and the Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Section of Endocrine Surgery, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 180 Fort Washington Ave, Herbert Irving Pavilion – 8th Floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA

    Rahul K. Sharma & Jennifer H Kuo

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Correspondence to Jennifer H Kuo.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on ENDOCRINE: Radiofrequency Ablation for Thyroid and Parathyroid Pathology

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Sharma, R.K., Kuo, J.H. Complications of RFA for Thyroid Nodules: Prevention and Management. Curr Otorhinolaryngol Rep 9, 79–86 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40136-020-00322-6

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