Which needle in the treatment of thyroid nodules?

Abstract

Thyroid nodules are a common finding in general population, with a prevalence of 20% to 70% at ultrasound (US) examination. Many of them are benign but treatment can be necessary to relief compressive symptoms. In the last years, percutaneous ablations have achieved amazing development in the treatment of thyroid nodules as they provide a minimally invasive but effective approach. We aimed to summarize the main aspects related to treatment of thyroid nodules with radiofrequency ablation (RFA), focusing on the use of different types of needles. A narrative review was performed and all papers analyzed reported good results in terms of nodule's size reduction and symptoms relief. No major complications have been reported, even though needles of bigger size seemed related with major risks of post-procedural local edema. Thus, thinner internally cooled multi tined needles [18-19 Gauge (G)] rather than larger needles (14 G) seem to have better results and less complications.