Efficacy and safety of single-session radiofrequency ablation for intrathoracic goiter: preliminary results and short-term evaluation

Background An intrathoracic goiter (ITG) is defined as a thyroid extension below the sternal notch. Compared to cervical goiters, surgery for ITG more challenging, with higher risk of an extracervical approach. Ultrasound (US)-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) minimally invasive treatment modality. The purpose this study was prospectively evaluate safety and efficacy RFA in patients ITG.Methods From total 324 who underwent at single medical center, 15 (mean age 52.2 years; 73.3% female) 16 ITGs were included classified into three grades types using cross-section imaging CT system. Clinical features demographics, degree extension, details, volume, complications analyzed.Results Mean pre- post-RFA volumes measured by US 106.62 ± 61.82 25.09 14.22 mL respectively, volume reduction rate (VRR) 75.5% (p < 0.001) 6 months. VRR CT/MRI 57.0 10.0% length months 44.9 39.2% = 0.001). In addition, 4 (25%) had regression downgrade from grade 1 goiter. symptom cosmetic scores 1.53 0.15 0.001), 2.67 2.00 respectively. One patient transient vocal cord palsy another perithyroidal mediastinal hemorrhage.Conclusion US-guided effective terms both reductions acceptable complication rate.