Benign thyroid nodules are a frequent thyroid disorder. Thyroid nodules are benign growths that can be painful and make it difficult to swallow or breathe. Getting a newport beach thyroid nodule biopsy is the first step of the process.
Targeted heat from radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the thyroid can destroy or reduce the size of thyroid nodules. Thyroid nodules are heated to the point of destruction using a tiny needle that emits radio waves.
Many people with thyroid nodules or hyperthyroidism have questions about the surgery despite its safe and successful treatment. In order to assist you in making a well-informed decision about your health, here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding thyroid RFA.
Is Thyroid Ablation Necessary?
Thyroid ablation is the surgical removal of benign thyroid nodules to enhance thyroid function and alleviate symptoms. Thyroid nodules can cause a variety of symptoms.
- Menstrual irregularities, such as bleeding during or skipping periods.
- Strange weight fluctuations
- Discomfort in regulating bowel movements
- Insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness
- Feelings of sadness or dread
- Disorders of the nervous system (such as tremors or numbness in the limbs).
However, it has the opposite effect in people with hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Does Thyroid Ablation Cause Any Pain?
Due to the local anesthetic, patients undergoing thyroid radiofrequency ablation rarely report any pain or discomfort during the treatment. Additionally, there might be mild tenderness around the insertion site for several days after the treatment but can be treated with over-the-counter pain medicines.
Is Thyroid Ablation Right for Me?
Although highly effective, radiofrequency ablation of the thyroid is not a treatment option for everyone. If you have the following conditions, your doctor may recommend thyroid RFA:
- Noncancerous nodules of the thyroid that are dormant
- Thyroid nodules that are benign yet hyperactive (toxic/hot) and produce too much thyroid hormone
- A condition affecting the thyroid that causes excessive thyroid activity.
What Should I Do Before Having My procedure done?
You will need to do a few things before your thyroid ablation if you and your doctor have decided that it will be the best treatment for your thyroid nodules.
Please check with your doctor to see if any medications you are currently taking could cause complications during the surgery. Blood thinners like warfarin and heparin could be among these drugs.
How frequently does thyroid ablation work?
Ablation techniques on the thyroid have a high success rate and almost little risk of complications. Most patients see a reduction in nodule size of 30–50% during the first two months following therapy, with further reductions occurring over the subsequent 12 months, even if the nodule is not completely eradicated.