SAT470 Outcomes Of Radiofrequency Ablation For Autonomously Functioning Thyroid Adenoma- Mayo Clinic Experience

Abstract

Abstract Disclosure: M. Dhanasekaran: None. A.A. Rajwani: None. M.R. Castro: None. J.C. Morris: None. J. Schmitz: None. R.A. Lee: None. M. Callstrom: None. M. Stan: None. Context: Autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTNs) constitutes 5% of thyroid nodules and is the second most common cause of hyperthyroidism following Graves’ Disease. Untreated hyperthyroidism is associated with adverse cardiovascular and skeletal complications. Currently, radioactive iodine (RAI) and surgery are the standard treatment options for AFTNs, and both incur a risk of post-procedural hypothyroidism. To overcome this and other surgery/radiation-related complications, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been utilized in multiple countries (for both toxic and non-toxic thyroid nodules). It has been shown to induce significant nodule volume reduction along with restoration of normal thyroid function in many AFTNs. Methods: We present a single-center experience using RFA as an alternative treatment modality for AFTNs. The study's primary aim was to assess the efficacy of RFA in normalizing thyroid hormone concentration and restoring the euthyroid state. In addition, we analyzed the efficacy of RFA in nodule volume rate reduction (VRR) and its associated adverse events. Results: A total of 22 consecutive patients (17 F and 5 M) underwent RFA for a solitary AFTN (hot nodule in thyroid uptake and scan) under variable degrees of general anesthesia. 72% (n=16) had subclinical hyperthyroidism, 9% (n=2) had overt hyperthyroidism, and 18% (n=4) were biochemically euthyroid on anti-thyroid drugs (ATD). The mean age at the time of ablation was 52.09 years (SD= 14.6), with a mean BMI of 27.36 kg/m2 (SD= 4.67). Average pre-treatment TSH was 0.41 mIU/L (SD= 0.980) and free T4 1.29 ng/dl (SD= 0.33). The thyroid function was assessed after a single RFA session. TSH normalized in all patients within 3-6 months following the ablation. All four patients on ATD pre-treatment discontinued therapy within three months following the procedure. The average VRR (62.54%) was achieved within 3-6 months following the RFA, and importantly, none of the nodules grew back during the follow-up period (up to 24 months). Two patients (9%) developed transient tachycardia requiring short-term beta-blocker therapy, and two (9%) developed mild hypothyroidism requiring levothyroxine therapy. One patient, euthyroid post RFA, developed recurrent hyperthyroidism 45 months later and elected to undergo lobectomy. No serious adverse effects were noted in this cohort. Conclusions - RAI and/or surgery represent the standard of care for toxic adenomas but RFA shows excellent efficacy along with an excellent safety profile. Therefore at centers with RFA expertise it should be considered an alternative treatment strategy, avoiding radiation and surgery-related complications. Presentation Date: Saturday, June 17, 2023