Ultrasound-Guided Microwave Ablation for Benign Thyroid Nodules: A Retrospective Analysis of Safety and Efficacy Factors

Abstract ObjectiveMicrowave ablation (MWA) is a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided microwave ablation in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules, and to provide reference for future clinical work.MethodsThis study retrospectively analyzed the patients who received ultrasound-guided microwave ablation for benign thyroid nodules in our hospital from October 2018 to March 2020. A total of 214 patients were included in the study. We assessed thyroid volume changes (represented by volume reduction ratio VRR) , the serum levels of triiodide thyroid hormone (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyrotropin (TSH) and complications after MWA treatment.ResultsThere were a total of 306 nodules in 214 patients, including 183 (85.51%) females and 31 (14.49%) males. The median diameter and volume of the nodule were 33mm and 8.01ml. The volume reduction ratio（VRR）at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months were 40.79%, 60.37%, 74.59% and 85.60%, respectively.（P<0.05) In addition, initial nodular volume were the influencing factors of volume reduction ratio.ConclusionsUltrasound-guided MWA is effective and safe in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules. In addition, it has little damage to surrounding tissues and no effect on thyroid function. Especially for the initial small volume of nodules, treatment is better. Therefore, ultrasound-guided thyroid MWA can be used as one of the main clinical treatment methods for benign thyroid nodules.