Ultrasound-guided percutaneous laser ablation (LA) in treating symptomatic solid benign thyroid nodules: Our experience in 45 patients

Background: Laser ablation may be useful in debulking of benign thyroid nodules. Methods: To evaluate retrospectively the effectiveness and safety of LA, 45 patients with benign solid thyroid nodules, with a fluid component ≤20%, were included in our series between October 2009 and January 2011. All reported pressure and/or cosmetic complaints. Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm was used, with a fix-power (3W), changing the application time. All patients were evaluated at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Complications were recorded. Results: mean nodule volume reduction decreased from 24.2 mL ±19.4 to 4.5 ± 5.2 at 12 months (p<0.001). Mean nodule volume reduction was 84% ± 13. Cosmetic signs were completely resolved in 87%, reduced in 9%, unchanged in 2%; pressure symptoms were resolved in 88%. One patient experienced transient dysphonia. Conclusions: US-guided LA is an effective tool for treatment of symptomatic benign thyroid nodules in patients not eligible for surgery. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.