The ability to apply radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has provided for a greater diversity of approaches for treatment of benign thyroid nodules. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of RFA performed by a surgeon.

From January 2009 to November 2010, a total of 47 benign thyroid nodules were treated with RFA performed by one surgeon. Nodular patterns were divided into mainly cystic, mixed, and mainly solid (soft solid, hard solid) nodules, and ultrasonography was performed for assessment of the volume-reduction radio (VRR) of each nodule. Follow-up ultrasonography was performed three to 19 months after ablation. And complication was observed. One session of RFA was performed.

The median volume before ablation was 7.8 cm3 (range 1.3~43.2 cm3). After ablation, the median volume was 0.9 cm3 (range 0.0-21.6 cm3) and VRR was 81.5±17.3%. RFA in mainly cystic nodules resulted in significant decreases in VRR (93.7±5.0%, P=0.009). It was the largest among the nodular types. VRR was 81.4±13.1% in mixed nodules, 77.2±19.2% in mainly solid nodules, 85.9±11.0% in soft solid nodules, and 54.2±17.3% in hard solid nodules 95.7% of nodules (45 nodules) showed more than 50% reduction, while the two remaining nodules, which were hard solid nodules, showed less than 50% reduction. Complications included pain, voice change, nausea, and transient voice change.

Results of this study demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of RFA performed by a surgeon for reducing nodule volume.