Current Practice of Percutaneous Ablation Technologies for Thyroid Nodules 2020

Purpose of Review: Thyroid nodules are commonly diagnosed in the general population. Though the majority of them are benign and followed clinically once detected, if compressive symptoms arise or malignancy is diagnosed, then surgical excision is considered the standard treatment. As surgery is associated with various post-operative complications, newer less invasive techniques have gained popularity. This article presents the various percutaneous ablation techniques that are currently being used for thyroid nodules. Recent Findings: In recent years, several studies largely from Asian and Europe institutions have shown promising results with the use of radiofrequency ablation (RFA), ethanol ablation (EA), and laser ablation (LA) for thyroid nodules. These techniques are gaining more acceptance worldwide as an alternative to surgery. Comparatively newer techniques such as microwave ablation (MWA) and high-intensity focus ultrasound (HIFU) are also available but there is little evidence about their efficacy. Summary: Percutaneous ablation techniques with a promising safety profile can be an effective alternative to traditional surgical methods for the management of carefully selected thyroid nodules. However, large-scale randomized control trials are needed to establish the efficacy and safety of these techniques in the North American population.