Radiofrequency Ablation for Autonomously Functioning Thyroid Nodules: A Multicenter Study

Background: The purpose of this study is to validate the generalizability of the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency (RF) ablation for treating autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTN) in a large population multicenter study. Methods: This study included 44 patients from 5 institutions who refused or were not suitable for surgery or radioiodine therapy. Twenty-three patients were affected by a toxic nodule and 21 by a pretoxic nodule. RF ablation was performed using an 18-gauge, internally cooled electrode. Nodule volume, thyroid function, scintigraphy, symptom/cosmetic scores, and complications were evaluated before treatment and during each follow-up. Results: The mean follow-up period was 19.9 +/- 12.6 months. The mean nodule volume was initially 18.5 +/- 30.1 mL and significantly decreased after treatment at 1 month (11.8 +/- 26.9 mL, p<0.001) and the last month (4.5 +/- 9.8 mL, p<0.001). Significant improvement of triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, and thyrotropin was observed at the last follow-up. Regarding scintigraphy, 35 hot nodules became cold or were normal when scanned and 9 decreased uptake, although they remained hot nodules. The mean symptom and cosmetic scores were significantly reduced at the last follow-up. No major complications were encountered. Conclusions: This multicenter study validated the efficacy and safety of RF ablation for treating AFTN; RF ablation can be considered an alternative to surgery or radioiodine therapy.