16. comparison of volumetric and cosmetic scoring changes after treatment of benign thyroid nodules using microwave ablation and ethanol ablation therapy

Abstract

Aim: This study retrospectively evaluated the effects of treatment of benign mixed-type and spongy-type thyroid nodules with microwave ablation (MWA) and ethanol ablation (EA) therapies. The changes in volume obtained by ultrasonography and cosmetic scores were examined. The efficiency of both treatment methods was also compared by statistical analyses.

Methods: Between July 2015 and July 2020, archive scanning was performed for patients who underwent MWA and EA in the radiology clinic. As a result, 57 MWA and 55 EA patients were included in the study. Nodule volumes from before the treatment, 3 months, and 6 months after ablation treatment were noted for each case. Cosmetic scores for all patients were also examined.

Results: A statistically significant difference was found in the mean nodule volume at 6 months between MWA and EA, with MWA being more successful (p<0.05). The MWA technique also resulted in significantly higher mean cosmetic score reduction (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Minimally invasive approaches are increasingly adopted in the treat¬ment of benign thyroid nodules, and both MWA and EA are effective and safe treat¬ments techniques. The results show that MWA treatment leads to better cosmetic scores and nodule volume changes in patients with benign mixed-type and spongy-type thyroid nodules.