MON-LB81 Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation RFA of Benign Symptomatic Thyroid Nodules - Initial Colombian Experience

Introduction: Radiofrequency ablation (RF) is a minimally invasive technique probed as effective and safe treatment alternative for the manage, We describe the results of efficacy and safety up to 12 months following the first thyroid nodules with ablative radiofrequency in Colombia.Objective: Evaluate the efficacy and safety of RF thyroid radiofrequency ablation for benign thyroid nodules in a protocol in our center in Bogotá Colombia, case series. Methodology: Prospective, observational and descriptive Trial Patients and procedure: From May/2017 to Nov/2019 we Treated 38 patients with 59 mainly solid nodules were treated with a Radiofrequency Ablation system with cooling 2 standard techniques (Trans-isthmic approach and moving Shut technique). Starmed system with cool type antenna of 16 G. and 10 mm active tip (3 cases) and Cosman RF cooled with 15 cm long active tips 5 to 15 mm 18 G electro Teflon. (35 cases). Here the first 59 nodules who completed a clinical and ultrasound follow-up to 12 months. Outcomes: initial volume was 15.4 +/-28 cc (0.03 a 203 cc) After radiofrequency ablation, the volume decreased significantly, in VRR%**. 40%, 55%, 62% y 68% at 1,3,6 & 12 months. final volume was 4.46 cc P= 0.000*. Compressive Symptoms drop from 5.84 to 1.19, 0.17, 1.76 at 1,3 & 6 moths p <0.001, Cosmetic Symptoms from 2.02/4 to 0.73, 0.58, 0.41 at 1,3 & 6 moths p <0.01. and Quality of Life symptoms from 0 to 10 drop from 5.6 to 2.4, 1.27 & 1.53 at 1,3 & 6 moths p<0.001. Not even one serious adverse event happened. Non-serious adverse events that did happened include minimal skin ecchymosis and transitory pain during less than 3 days, average 4/10 VAS (Visual Analog Scale). None developed hypothyroidism or required hospitalization. one patient presents transitory Horner syndrome and other nodule rupture. Two patients present a transitory dysphonia. Conclusions Radiofrequency ablation performed in our institution is effective and safe for the treatment of thyroid nodules. With patient satisfaction, improve the compressive, cosmetic symptoms and quality of life and without severe complications. It is necessary to continue to enrich this experience, because reducing volume and solving compressive and cosmetic problems, is ambulatory procedure.