MON-LB096 Methodical Aspects of Using New Low-cost Device for Bipolar Radiofrequency Ablation: Thyrablator

The rising incidence and optimization of management of nodular goiter and thyroid cancer are actual problems for many countries. In last decade radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is becoming more useful treatment option helping to avoid an overtreatment and surgical complications. This technique was developed in 2002 in South Korea and many European countries (Italy, Denmark, Spain, Germany, Austria) are offering RFA in special thyroid clinics. The first study of the effectiveness and feasibility of thyroid nodule RFA in the USA was conducted at Mayo Clinic in 2013, however number of patients and experience until now are very limited. Currently both monopolar and bipolar RFA techniques are used. To ablate small thyroid nodules (less than 2 cm in diameter), in 2017, in framework of american-belarusian clinical trial we started to use a new, originally developed, and patented, low-cost device for bipolar RFA - «Thyrablator». In comparison to a conventional monopolar electrode for RFA, Thyrablator, was designed as a sterile, disposable needle for the fine needle biopsy (20-gauge). It can be used with any type electrosurgical unit, operating in bipolar mode, attached to the generator with a removable connector and no need for a grounding pad. Thyrablator can also be used for drainage of cysts and for injection of liquids to enhance the ablative effect or for anesthetic instillation. Methodically ultrasound-guided percutaneous bipolar RFA was performed with local anesthesia, "moving-shot" technique, with the power of 3 to 5 Watt for duration of 30 to 60 seconds. It requires less time and power for successful ablation of nodes than stated in reports for monopolar electrode. An average reduction of nodule volume was approximately up to 60% after 3 months of follow-up. Conclusion. The first clinical trial showed a promising methodical approach of the new low-cost bipolar RFA device - Thyrablator. More studies are needed for active implementation bipolar RFA in clinical practice in the USA and training programs should begin preparing experienced interventional thyroidologists to treat patients, achieving good results and low complications rate. Unless otherwise noted, all abstracts presented at ENDO are embargoed until the date and time of presentation. For oral presentations, the abstracts are embargoed until the session begins. Abstracts presented at a news conference are embargoed until the date and time of the news conference. The Endocrine Society reserves the right to lift the embargo on specific abstracts that are selected for promotion prior to or during ENDO.