MWA vs RFA for the Treatment of Moderate-sized Benign Thyroid Nodules

Launched by THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · May 17, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying two different treatment methods, microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), for patients with moderate-sized benign thyroid nodules. These nodules are non-cancerous lumps in the thyroid gland that can sometimes cause discomfort or other issues. The goal of the trial is to find out which method is more effective and safer in reducing the size of these nodules, especially since current treatments like surgery can carry risks.

To participate in the trial, you need to be an adult aged 18 or older with a thyroid nodule that is at least 2 cm in size and mostly solid. The nodule must be confirmed as benign through prior biopsies. If you are pregnant, have certain heart conditions, or have nodules that can’t be easily seen on ultrasound, you won't be eligible. Participants will undergo one of the two ablation treatments and will be monitored to see how well the treatment works in reducing the size of their nodules and improving any symptoms. This trial is currently recruiting participants, and it aims to provide valuable information on the best treatment options for this common condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Adult patients \>/=18 years of age
• • 2. Nodule maximal diameter ≥2cm and nodule volume \<20ml
• • 3. Nodule being predominantly solid (≥80% solid)
• • 4. Confirmed benign nature of nodules, either by : two benign fine needle biopsies, with the most recent biopsy performed within 1 year of enrollment in study or one benign fine needle biopsy and low suspicion characteristics on ultrasound
• • 5. Both functional and non-functional nodules are eligible.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Cytologically indeterminate nodules
• • 2. Nodules with substernal extension or posterior extension that cannot be viewed sufficiently with ultrasound
• • 3. current pregnancy or cardiac arrhythmias; presence of pacemaker or any medical condition that renders patient unfit for thermal ablation