Get back to your life faster with thyroid ablation, a nonsurgical treatment option for thyroid nodules. At the Orange County Interventional Radiology Center, we offer this advanced procedure as a comfortable alternative to traditional surgery, with no incisions and no general anesthesia required. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art imaging guidance to precisely treat problematic nodules, providing effective results with minimal recovery time.
Book AppointmentThyroid ablation is a nonsurgical procedure to shrink thyroid nodules — small, noncancerous lumps that form within the thyroid. By age 45, up to 50% of people have thyroid nodules that can be seen on an ultrasound. While most are asymptomatic, some can grow large enough to cause a visible bulge in the throat, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, and jaw, ear or neck pain.
Thyroid ablation uses radiofrequency (RF) technology to shrink benign thyroid nodules, providing a minimally invasive alternative to surgery or radioactive iodine therapy. During the procedure, our skilled specialists use ultrasound guidance and a small needle electrode to deliver RF energy directly into the targeted area. This precise approach allows us to treat symptomatic thyroid nodules while protecting the surrounding healthy tissue.
Not everyone with thyroid nodules needs surgery. For many, thyroid ablation offers a minimally invasive alternative that can effectively treat problematic nodules, letting you avoid the operating room. With a short recovery, you’ll be able to get back to your normal routine quickly.
You may be an ideal candidate for thyroid ablation if you have:
Before recommending thyroid ablation, our specialists will evaluate your symptoms, medical history and treatment options during your initial consultation. This detailed assessment allows us to determine if thyroid ablation is suitable for your health needs and treatment goals.
Thyroid ablation is performed in an outpatient setting using local anesthesia. It typically takes about 30-60 minutes, after which you’ll be able to return home. During the procedure, our interventional radiologists will use ultrasound guidance to insert a thin needle electrode into the thyroid nodules. This electrode then delivers RF energy to shrink the nodule without harming the surrounding tissue. Once complete, we will place a small bandage over the entry point. No stitches are needed and most patients can resume their normal activities within 24 hours.
Recovery from thyroid ablation is typically quick and straightforward, with most patients experiencing minimal disruption to their daily routines. You might notice some mild neck discomfort, swelling, or tenderness at the treatment site for a few days following the procedure. These symptoms are usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
Most patients return to work and normal activities within 24 hours, though we do recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for about a week. You can apply ice packs to reduce any swelling, and most patients find they can resume their regular diet immediately after the procedure.
If you’re dealing with thyroid nodules and want to learn more about nonsurgical treatment options, we can help. At Orange County Interventional Radiology, our experienced team of interventional radiologists will evaluate your concerns and answer your questions to determine if thyroid ablation is right for you. Call us today at (949) 317-1633 to schedule your consultation at one of our locations in Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, or Irvine.
Our Locations
29300 Portola Parkway, Suite B
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
26921 Crown Valley Parkway, #120
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
18102 Sky Park Circle South, Suite D
Irvine, CA 92614
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
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