Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation
A Non Surgical Treatment of Thyroid Nodules
What is Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation or RFA?
Thyroid Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a safe outpatient procedure – so there is no need to be admitted into the hospital. The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes and results can be seen as soon as 4 weeks. More insurance companies are now covering this procedure.
Why choose The Thyroid Clinic?
Dr. Aljammal is the first Endocrinologist in Utah to use Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) for the treatment of thyroid nodules, and the first in North American to use Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) for the treatment of medullary thyroid cancer, and parathyroid adenoma. He has performed more than 500 successful Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation and his published outcome are exceptional.
What is Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) for Thyroid Nodules?
Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA), is a cutting-edge technology used to treat thyroid nodules in the United States. Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) uses alternating electric current to ablate, or destroy, thyroid nodules. Over time, the nodule shrinks in size, with the majority of shrinkage happening in the first 4-6 weeks. Surrounding healthy thyroid tissue remains intact and unharmed.
How effective is Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) in treating thyroid nodules?
Dr Aljammal recently published a study that shows Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) consistently produces a 50% volume reduction in the size of thyroid nodules and a 70-99% volume reduction in nodule size in some patients. Also noteworthy is that 75% of patients with a toxic nodule experienced normalization of thyroid hormone levels. Therapeutic effect was achieved in 100% of our patients.
When is Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) indicated?
- Causing compressive symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or breathing, constant cough, persistent voice changes, and sensation of a lump in the throat.
- Cosmetically unappealing because of size.
Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) is also indicated for toxic or overactive nodules that are causing hyperthyroidism, and in patients who are not surgical candidates or who would prefer to avoid surgery.
How can a patient be evaluated for treatment with Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA)?
- Two FNA biopsies taken on 2 different occasions, and showing benign results
- One FNA biopsy of a toxic or overactive nodule showing benign results
Soon, we anticipate that patients with undetermined biopsy results will qualify for Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) if Thyroseq genetic testing results are negative.
Why choose Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) over surgical removal of the thyroid?
- Treats problematic nodules while leaving healthy thyroid tissue intact.
- Significantly less invasive and does not leave a scar.
- Done with limited local anesthesia and minimal to No discomfort
- Has a recovery time of 15-30 min and does not require a hospital stay.
- Has an extremely low risk of complications.
Are there any risks associated with Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA)?
- Temporary voice changes in 1% of patients, with no permanent voice changes.
- Hematoma in 1% of patients, resolved within 1 week.
- Vomiting in 0.6% of patients, resolved in 1-2 days.
- Mild skin burn in 0.3% of patients, resolved in 1 week.
- Nodule rupture in 0.14% of patients, treated conservatively
- Infection involving the thyroid nodule in 0.07% treated with antibiotics
How much does Thyroid RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA) cost?
Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation Story
Dr. Jules Aljammal, MD, ECNU
Dr. Aljammal is a dedicated doctor with a passion for providing the highest standard of medical care for his patients. He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, a top-rated U.S. academic hospital where he trained with national leaders in endocrinology. He is board-certified in endocrinology, with expertise in the evaluation and treatment of thyroid diseases. Dr Aljammal is also ECNU certified.
Dr. Aljammal’s focus is on helping patients with thyroid disorders. He has carefully evaluated many non-surgical treatments for benign thyroid nodules, including microwave ablation, high intensity frequency ultrasound, and most recently, radiofrequency ablation (RFA). In March, 2018, Dr Aljammal attended the first Master Course for RFA, and witnessed impressive clinical results. Since that time, he has worked tirelessly to bring this technology to the forefront in the United States. He has performed RFA in the treatment of benign and toxic thyroid nodules, and has also successfully treated the first cases of medullary thyroid cancer and parathyroid adenoma in North America. He is a leading physician on the radiofrequency ablation team at The Thyroid Clinic, and his technique with RFA using hydro-dissection has led to 100% successful outcomes without any complications.
Dr Aljammal is a gifted educator, and is involved in the training of other endocrinology physicians interested in learning about this technology. His accomplishments are a testimony of his dedication to the field, and to his patients.
Contact our office for additional information about Thyroid Radiofrequency (RFA)
The Thyroid Clinic Utah offers the highest quality of care for patients with thyroid and parathyroid disorders using the most advanced technology. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions about thyroid symptoms in Utah or surrounding states.
Fax
(801) 683-6845
The Thyroid Clinic Utah offers the highest quality of care for patients with thyroid and parathyroid disorders using the most advanced technology.
Fax
(801) 683-6845