Cost of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the thyroid gland under ultrasound guidance.

What is radiofrequency ablation of the thyroid gland?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the thyroid gland is a new method for burning away thyroid nodules. This minimally invasive procedure, performed by radiologists (ultrasound specialists), is used as an alternative to open surgery for thyroid nodules due to its increased risk of complications.

The principle of radiofrequency ablation for thyroid nodules.

Treatment of benign thyroid tumors using ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation is a method of destroying the tumor locally with heat. The operating principle is based on using alternating current with a frequency of 300-500 MHz, released from a radiofrequency ablation device connected to an electrode needle, to generate an electric current that is delivered into the tumor.

After radiofrequency ablation, the tumor tissue cells undergo coagulation or die due to the high temperature, and the damaged area after ablation still remains in the thyroid gland.

However, this damaged area will gradually regress and shrink in size and volume over time thanks to the activity of white blood cells and macrophages—the cleaning army—of the immune system.

Indications and contraindications for radiofrequency ablation of tumors.
ASSIGN

For benign thyroid nodules:

* Symptomatic tumors: Neck pain, difficulty swallowing, feeling of a lump in the neck, discomfort, and coughing.

* It forms a bulge in the neck area, affecting aesthetics.

* The tumor compresses or pushes against surrounding structures (trachea, esophagus, etc.).

* Hot nodules in the thyroid gland cause clinical hyperthyroidism.

* Mixed masses (consisting of fluid and solid components) recur after treatment with absolute alcohol.

For malignant thyroid tumors:

* Papillary thyroid carcinoma nodules ≤ 10mm in size

* Malignant thyroid tumors that are not surgically treatable, such as in elderly individuals or those with underlying medical conditions.

Local recurrence of lesions or cervical lymph node metastasis after unsuccessful surgery.

RELATIVE CONTRAINDICATIONS

* Pregnant women

* The patient has contralateral vocal cord paralysis.

Things to note when using radiofrequency ablation to treat thyroid nodules.

The thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) method is considered highly effective in treating thyroid nodules. However, you need to pay attention to the following points:

After thyroid RFA treatment, your doctor may schedule follow-up appointments every 1, 3, 6 months, or 12 months, depending on your individual case.

This method helps to gradually reduce the size of the tumor. Unlike surgery, radiofrequency ablation of thyroid tumors significantly reduces the risk of complications and ensures a more aesthetically pleasing result, leaving no unsightly scars on the neck.

Currently, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is indicated for benign goiters. For early-stage papillary thyroid cancers, RFA has shown high safety and efficacy, promising to be a new solution in the treatment of thyroid tumors.

Advantages and disadvantages of radiofrequency ablation of thyroid nodules.

Radiofrequency ablation of thyroid nodules leaves no scars at the surgical site because it is non-invasive and does not involve incisions.

Advantage

The advantages of radiofrequency ablation include:

* The ablation is localized to the thyroid nodule, thus preserving healthy thyroid tissue and maximizing thyroid function for the patient.

* This treatment method does not cause hypothyroidism, so hormone replacement therapy is not needed after the intervention.

* This technique does not require general anesthesia; only local anesthesia around the thyroid gland is needed. Recovery time is faster, and the risks and complications associated with general anesthesia are minimized compared to surgery.

The patient is conscious and able to communicate with the doctor during the procedure.

* No scarring on the neck area due to minimally invasive intervention through a very small needle puncture instead of an open incision in the neck area if surgery were performed.

* The rate of complications (hoarseness, loss of voice, hypoparathyroidism, bleeding - hematoma) is lower compared to surgery.

* High treatment efficacy (on average, tumors reduce by >90% in volume by one year after radiofrequency ablation and continue to decrease in subsequent years).

Disadvantages

Besides its advantages, this technique also has some disadvantages because it is a new, advanced technique and therefore not yet widespread, meaning not all medical facilities can perform it.

How much does radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the thyroid gland cost?

As we know, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a new method using modern technology and equipment, therefore, the cost, when considered individually, will be more expensive than conventional surgery.

However, if you consider the broader picture, when undergoing surgery you will have to factor in additional costs such as: a long hospital stay of 7 to 10 days, living expenses, and the loss of your job, as well as the time needed for recovery.

Therefore, radiofrequency ablation is still considered a cost-effective method that is highly effective, safe, and aesthetically pleasing.

The current price for radiofrequency ablation is not fixed and depends on many factors such as: the number and size of tumors; moreover, the price varies from hospital to hospital. Generally, the price ranges from 20 to 30 million VND per treatment.

Which hospital should you go to for thyroidectomy treatment?

Photo: Dr. Nguyen Duc Tinh performing a procedure at Military Hospital 175.

Currently, Military Hospital 175 , with its team of experienced doctors and modern equipment, provides accurate and safe diagnosis and treatment results.

The Diagnostic Imaging Department of Military Hospital 175 has a team of interventional radiologists who are well-trained in both ultrasound and radiofrequency ablation techniques. For consultation, examination, and treatment support, you can contact them using the following information:

* Doctor Nguyen Duc Tinh, Specialist Level 1

*Address: Interventional Imaging Clinic, Military Hospital 175, 786 Nguyen Kiem Street, Ward 3, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City

*Phone number: Dr. Nguyen Duc Tinh 0976958582

Email: BStinh175@gmail.com

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