Effect of thermal ablation on benign thyroid nodules and its related factors

Objective：To explore the effect of thermal ablation on benign thyroid nodules and its related factors. Methods：Clinical data of 86 patients with benign thyroid nodules and treated with thermal ablation in Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University were retrospectively analyzed. At one year follow-up after ablation, the volume reduction rate(VRR) and relevant factors affecting curative effect were analyzed. Results：One year after the ablation, the nodular volumes decreased from (12.3±7.3) mL to (2.8±2.5) mL, and the mean VRR was (79.6±20.4)%. There was a significant amelioration of clinical status. The symptom and cosmetic scores decreased significantly (P<0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that men had better therapeutic effects than women, the initial volume was negatively correlated with the VRR, and RFA was superior to MWA. The differences were all statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusions：Thermal ablation has a good effect on the thyroid nodules. The initial volume, ablation method, and gender maybe independent factors for the effect of ablation.