Thyroid nodules are not a new disorder, and medical research shows that many people develop them at some point in their lives and are not even aware of them. However, when these nodules increase in size, they can interfere with swallowing and breathing or even affect your physical appearance. If your thyroid nodules cause pain and discomfort, Dr. Nikravan may recommend thyroid RFA Newport Beach to reduce their size and alleviate your symptoms.
When to consider RFA
If you have benign thyroid nodules that interfere with your speech, breathing, or ability to swallow, your provider may recommend radiofrequency ablation. Additionally, if the nodules cause pain and discomfort in your neck, you may benefit from this procedure. Currently, RFA can only address benign thyroid nodules, but medical experts are working on making the treatment an option for people with small cancerous thyroid tumors. During your initial appointment, Dr. Nikravan will conduct a comprehensive exam to ensure your treatment eligibility.
If you are pregnant, you may not be eligible, as the electrical current can affect the fetus. Also, if you are taking blood-thinning medication or have a history of bleeding disorders, your provider may not recommend radiofrequency ablation.
How thyroid RFA works
The procedure utilizes high-frequency electrical current to destroy thyroid nodules, reducing their size and improving symptoms. You will lie on your back and slightly extend your neck during the procedure. Dr. Nikravan will then administer local anesthesia to prevent you from experiencing any discomfort. He then uses ultrasound to direct the needle into the nodule, and once it reaches the target area, he activates the radiofrequency generator. Afterward, your provider will insert a thin needle into the thyroid nodule and transmit radiofrequency energy to generate heat at the treatment site, reducing the nodule’s size. The time it takes to complete the procedure depends on the size of your nodule, but it usually takes about 30 minutes. This procedure destroys most of the nodule’s cells, leaving the healthy thyroid cells untouched.
Complications associated with thyroid RFA
Like many treatments, RFA can result in several complications, the most common being voice alteration. However, you can expect to regain your original voice within a few months. In some cases, you may experience skin burns at the treatment site. You may notice a change in your skin color and experience mild discomfort, which often resolves within two weeks. You may experience nausea or vomiting after the procedure but never during the session. Nausea may be due to the extension of your neck, which can result in an imbalance of blood flow.
A history of nausea and age may also contribute to this side effect. In rare cases, you may experience a ruptured nodule. You may not notice this complication immediately, but it may become more evident several weeks after the treatment. You may experience pain at the treatment site, and your neck may suddenly bulge. Your provider may prescribe antibiotics to resolve the ruptured nodule in such cases. There has been no esophageal injury, permanent voice alterations, or other life-changing complications.
For more information about thyroid RFA, call Dr.Nikravan or boom your spot online.
