SUMMARY: Microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offer minimally invasive options for treating thyroid nodules while preserving healthy tissue. Both procedures differ in tools, effectiveness, and complications. RFA is more precise and effective, with fewer complications. Learn more to choose the best option for your thyroid health.
When it comes to treating thyroid nodules, today’s patients have options.
In the past, doctors were quick to recommend surgical intervention, including complete thyroidectomy. As a result, patients with benign nodules found themselves on lifetime medications. Now, minimally invasive options such as microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can preserve healthy thyroid tissue.
Are you comparing microwave ablation vs. radiofrequency ablation and unsure which treatment to choose? This guide will help. We’re sharing the basics and benefits of each procedure to ensure you make the best decision for your lifestyle.
Continue reading to compare MWA vs. RFA and make the right choice for your ongoing thyroid health.
Microwave Ablation vs. Radiofrequency Ablation: Similarities
Microwave and Radiofrequency Ablation are both minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided procedures. Both RFA and MWA are commonly used to treat thyroid nodules.
Your doctor will perform an ultrasound during both procedures. At the same time, your doctor will use a special needle to deliver energy to your thyroid nodule. This energy will ablate (or heat) the cells, plus a small margin around them.
Both procedures will destroy thyroid nodules while preserving your healthy thyroid tissue. As a result, you’re unlikely to need lifetime medications following either procedure. In both cases, your body will naturally eliminate the destroyed tissue as waste.
Radiofrequency Ablation vs. Microwave Ablation: Differences
In comparison, microwave vs radiofrequency ablation may seem similar. However, they do have some considerable differences. We’ll explore what makes them unique below.
What Is Microwave Ablation (MWA)?
During MWA, your doctor will use a hollow ceramic needle called a microwave antenna. This tool typically isn’t sharp. As a result, your physician will make an incision and insert the antenna into your thyroid. They will use the ultrasound machine to ensure they deliver heat to only your nodule.
According to recent research, there is some evidence that, for the thyroid, MWA is less effective than RFA. It also has a slightly higher complication rate. Because your doctor must make an incision, there may be a bigger wound.
Microwave ablation is very effective for certain organs, like the liver. However, RFA may be safer and more manageable when treating thyroid nodules. With that said, most agree that MWA is quicker, safer, more comfortable, and less expensive than thyroid surgery.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
In contrast, during RFA, your doctor will use a very small, very sharp needle called an electrode. Because the needle is so sharp, there is no need for an incision, and the needle should not cause scarring.
Similar to microwave ablation, your doctor will use an ultrasound machine to ensure the electrode reaches your nodule precisely. They will then introduce heat in the form of radiofrequency energy. Modern electrodes are very precise and allow physicians to control exactly which tissue is exposed to heat.
In recent studies, researchers found that RFA was more effective than MWA. Specifically, it was better at reducing the volume of thyroid nodules over time.
RFA vs. MWA: Which Is Safer?
There isn’t a big difference in patient safety if your doctor has the right training. However, research suggests that thyroid RFA patients seem to experience more favorable long-term outcomes.
Likewise, RFA has a lower average complication rate when compared to MWA, which requires higher temperatures. Because there is no incision, RFA patients also tend to be happier with their aesthetic improvements.
Another concern for some patients is voice changes. Since the thyroid is so close to the vocal cords, this is sometimes a higher risk associated with MWA.
In thyroid RFA, 2.8% of patients experienced transient voice changes. After thyroid MWA, up to 4% of patients experienced this side effect. If this is important to you, RFA may offer more peace of mind.
Connect with an RFA Provider
Your doctor can help you decide if microwave ablation vs. radiofrequency ablation is right for you. Are you interested in connecting with a doctor who performs RFA at their practice? We can help. Learn more about STARmed RFA and then access our physician finder tool to connect.
