Summit Interventional Radiology Logo

Thyroid Ablation

Thyroid nodules? Surgery May Not Be Your Only Option.

Summit Interventional Radiology now offers minimally invasive thyroid nodule ablation using radiofrequency (RFA) and microwave (MWA) technology.

These outpatient procedures are designed to shrink benign thyroid nodules while preserving healthy thyroid tissue, without traditional surgery or a visible surgical scar.

Key Patient Benefits:

  • Minimally invasive, with no surgical incision
  • Preserves healthy thyroid tissue
  • Outpatient procedure with typically quick recovery
  • Can help relieve discomfort, pressure, and cosmetic concerns
  • An alternative to traditional thyroid surgery for appropriate patients

 What Is Thyroid Ablation?

Thyroid ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that uses targeted heat to shrink benign thyroid nodules. Using ultrasound guidance, an interventional radiologist directs a small probe into the nodule to treat the targeted tissue while preserving surrounding healthy thyroid tissue.

Summit IR offers both radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA).

Are You a Candidate for Thyroid Ablation?

Thyroid ablation may be an option for patients with biopsy-confirmed benign thyroid nodules that cause:

  • Neck pressure or discomfort
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • A visible lump or bulge in the neck
  • Cosmetic concerns

Eligibility depends on biopsy results, ultrasound findings, nodule characteristics, and medical history. An evaluation with an interventional radiologist can help determine if treatment is appropriate.

RFA vs. MWA: What’s the Difference?

Both treatments use controlled heat to shrink thyroid nodules.

  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses high-frequency electrical energy to generate heat within the nodule.
  • Microwave Ablation (MWA): Uses microwave energy to heat and treat targeted nodule tissue.

Both procedures are performed using ultrasound guidance. Your physician will determine which approach is most appropriate for your needs.

Why Choose Summit Interventional Radiology?

Led by Dr. Preston Smith, Summit Interventional Radiology specializes in advanced, image-guided, minimally invasive treatments.

Our team is trained to give our patients personalized care, with advanced technology, and treatment options designed to minimize disruption to your daily life. Thyroid ablation offers eligible patients an outpatient alternative to traditional surgery, allowing them to return home the same day.


Frequently Asked Questions

Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, although mild pressure or discomfort may occur. Temporary soreness or swelling can follow treatment.

Coverage varies by insurance provider, treatment type, and individual medical circumstances. Our team can help you understand potential coverage and costs before treatment.

Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within a short period. Your physician will provide individualized recovery instructions.

Thyroid ablation shrinks rather than removes the nodule. The treated tissue gradually decreases in size over several months. Follow-up ultrasounds monitor treatment results.


Explore Your Thyroid Treatment Options

Surgery isn’t always the only option for benign thyroid nodules. Contact Summit Interventional Radiology to schedule a consultation and find out if thyroid ablation may be right for you.

Name(Required)
How would you prefer we contact you?(Required)

Learn More about Dr. Smith and Interventional Radiology


Schedule an Appointment