Interventional Procedures for Hyperthyroidism

Our doctors may offer thyroid radio frequency ablation, or RFA, to treat nodules that cause hyperthyroidism. Using ultrasound guidance, we insert a thin needle electrode through the skin and into the thyroid to precisely deliver heat to destroy unwanted tissue. This precise treatment targets nodules, is safe for area nerves, muscles, and blood vessels, and preserves nearby structures such as the trachea and esophagus.

Thyroid RFA is an outpatient procedure that can sometimes be performed in a doctor’s office. It only requires local anesthesia, but our doctors typically recommend a light sedative to help you relax.

Most people can return to normal activities the day after the procedure. Thyroid RFA offers a faster recovery, fewer complications, and no scarring when compared to surgery.

Nanosecond pulsed field ablation (nsPFA), a form of irreversible electroporation, is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers short electrical pulses to disrupt cell membranes, interfere with cell function, and cause the breakdown of unwanted thyroid tissue.

The treatment, which is delivered through a probe placed through the skin and into the thyroid using ultrasound guidance, is nonthermal. This means it does not use heat, greatly reducing the risk of destroying surrounding healthy tissue. The highly precise treatment protects area nerves, muscles, and blood vessels.

nsPFA is an in-office or outpatient procedure that requires local anesthesia. However, our doctors usually recommend a light sedative to help you relax. The procedure may be an alternative to surgery and work more quickly than RFA.