Radiofrequency ablation is an effective treatment for Bethesda III thyroid nodules without genetic alterations
Authors' conclusion
RFA is effective in Bethesda III, oncogene-negative nodules, with reduction rates similar to those obtained in confirmed benign lesions. This procedure represents a good alternative to surgery or active surveillance in this particular class of nodules, regardless of their initial volume. A longer follow-up will allow to evaluate further reduction or possible regrowth.
Study context
- Population
- Patients with Bethesda III thyroid nodules, EU-TIRADS 3–4, negative genetic panel; mean basal nodular volume 17.3 ± 10.7 mL
- Participants
- 33 patients
- Outcome
- Volume reduction rate (VRR)
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
Mean VRR
- Volume reduction rate (VRR) at 1 month (mean ± SD)
- 36.8 ± 16.5%
- VRR at 6 months (mean ± SD)
- 59.9 ± 15.5%
- VRR at 1-year follow-up (mean ± SD)
- 62 ± 15.7%
- Reduction statistically significant at all time points
- P < 0.0001
Further findings
Sub-analysis in patients with 1- and 2-year follow-up · 1 and 2 years
- Progressive nodular volume decrease confirmed (n = 20 and n = 5, respectively)
Safety
Complications and cytological changes after radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
- Neither cytological changes nor complications were observed after the procedure
Original publication
Radiofrequency ablation is an effective treatment for Bethesda III thyroid nodules without genetic alterations. Eur Thyroid J. Published 13 May 2024. doi:10.
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