Your doctor might recommend thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) if you are enduring thyroid nodules. It is common to develop nodules on your thyroid glands which can cause swallowing and breathing complications. The nodules can also affect your physical appearance and confidence, and self-esteem. The Newport Beach Thyroid RFA specialists employ thyroid radiofrequency ablation to skip surgery which can have adverse side effects. The treatment has been effective in reducing the nodules and reversing your symptoms. You might have many questions about the treatment, and the answers are here. Have a look.
What is It?
Traditionally, the only option to reduce thyroid nodules was through surgery which can be painful and have adverse effects. Fortunately, thyroid radiofrequency ablation is the alternative to surgery. The treatment is minimally invasive and effectively reduces thyroid nodules to lift unpleasant symptoms. It involves using ultrasound to locate the nodule, improving accuracy. Only the affected area is treated or interfered with. Your provider allows a controlled amount of energy to flow into the affected tissue through an electrode to ablate the nodule. The nodule degenerates and will naturally disappear from your body as waste after a few months.
Why Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation?
As mentioned earlier, thyroid radiofrequency ablation is non-surgical. It is safe for most people, unlike surgery which can have multiple limitations. The procedure is also a quick procedure that can be done, and you are off to your normal life with minimal downtime and recovery. Therefore, your doctor will recommend thyroid radiofrequency ablation as an alternative to surgery to help manage undesirable thyroid nodules. Although you might develop some tissue damage from the heat, it only happens to a small radius close to the electrode and is short-lived.
How You Gain from Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation
There is more to enjoy about thyroid radiofrequency ablation treatment. Your healthy thyroid tissue will be well preserved since the heat only targets the affected nodules. Your thyroid function will be normal for the rest of the time without relying on medications. The procedure is also performed on an outpatient basis allowing you to return to your life soon. Other benefits of thyroid radiofrequency ablation include no scarring, a shorter recovery period, reduced rate of complications, volume reduction, and overall quality of life improvement.
Are there Risks Involved?
Any medical procedure involves some risks. What matters is the intensity of the risks involved compared to the benefits gained. For thyroid radiofrequency ablation, risks include a hoarse voice, skin burns, bleeding, and infection. Your provider will take measures to minimize the risks. Serious issues like esophagus, nerve, and trachea damage are rare. You might require several treatments to manage large nodules, which is important to discuss with your doctor before your treatment.
Is it Painful?
It is natural to be concerned about pain. However, be assured that thyroid radiofrequency ablation is painless compared to surgery. Your doctor uses local anesthesia before the procedure to improve your experience. Although you might feel pressure or push in your neck, pain is rare. However, talk to your doctor if you experience extra pain or discomfort. Remember that recovery is straightforward, and you do not have to worry about postoperative pain like surgery.
Thyroid radiofrequency ablation can help manage your hard thyroid nodules. Get in touch with Dr. Sean P. Nikravan, MD, FACE specialist, to learn if you are a candidate for the treatment. Book your appointment today through a call on the online tool.
