Analysis of the safety and effectiveness of ultrasound-guided microwave ablation in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules
Objective:To explore the safety and effectiveness of ultrasound-guided microwave ablation in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules.Methods:Data from 63 patients with benign thyroid nodules who underwent ultrasound-guided microwave ablation in Zhongshan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University from June 2016 to April 2017 were retrospectively analyzed.The ablation range,blood flow,volume reduction rate(VRR),thyroid function,clinical status and complications were assessed at each follow-up.Results:The VRR gradually increased by(25.0±15.7)%,(53.6±21.9)%,(68.0±18.9)%and(76.2±19.0)%at 1-,3-,6-,and 12-month after microwave ablation.Larger VRR had achieved in mainly cystic nodules than mainly solid nodules at each follow-up.Compared to the pre-treatment period,patients exhibited a significant decrease in both symptom and cosmetic scores at 12 months after ablation(P<0.05).Furthermore,the levels of serum free triiodothyronine,free thyroxine,and thyroid-stimulating hormone did not show significant changes(P>0.05).Transient complications including thyroid dysfunction and voice change were observed in 3 cases during the follow-up.However,no cases of esophageal perforation,hematoma formation,infection and tracheal injury were identified.Conclusion:The ultrasound-guided microwave ablation for benign thyroid nodules has significant effect,few complications and high safety,which is worth extensive application by clinicians.