Thermoablative Treatment of Papillary Microcarcinomas of Thyroid.

Background: Recently, locoregional treatment with ultrasound-guided radiofrequency has been proposed as a new, effective, and safe procedure for low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTC < 1 cm), not eligible or recruitable for surgery. Until now, the gold standard has been the surgery and then the active surveillance.

Objective: The aim of the study is to present our experience of ultrasound-guidedthermoablation, a procedure performed before demolitive surgery and post-active surveillance. It is a non-invasive treatment that does not require general anesthesia, with a low risk of complications, hypothyroidism, and hypoparathyroidism.

Methods: All nodules described on ultrasound showed a volumetric increase (follow-up from 12 to 36 months). The cytological examination in all cases showed TIR 4b and TIR 5 papillary microcarcinoma. All the patients were offered the possibility of radiofrequency thermoablation; they were all informed and gave their consent. 18G active tip electrode needles 7 or 10 mm (Amica Gen HS) were used with the moving shot method under local anesthesia in a day hospital setting. No severe complications were reported.

Results: Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography (CEUS) with SonoVue (CEUS Sonovue) was performed post-procedure and then at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, which documented complete revascularization and progressive volumetric reduction of the treated area.

Conclusion: Our experience has confirmed that radiofrequency ablation can effectively eliminate small papillary thyroid carcinomas with fewer complications. In our opinion, it is a valid alternative for the treatment of low-risk and indolent papillary thyroid microcarcinomas, even in the absence of surgical contraindications.