Preliminary report of microwave ablation for the primary papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: a large-cohort of 185 patients feasibility study

Abstract

PurposeTo assess the safety and efficacy of microwave ablation (MWA) for primary papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) with a large sample of 185 patients.MethodsA total of 185 patients underwent MWA for 206 primary PTMC nodules. They received ultrasound follow-up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after MWA and every 6 months thereafter. Nodule volumes were calculated at each follow-up and compared with those before MWA. Additionally, the volume reduction rate (VRR) of the nodules was calculated. Patients’ thyroid functions were tested before and 1 month after MWA.ResultsThe mean follow-up time of the 185 patients was 20.7\u2009±\u20098.8 months (range 12–36 months). During the follow-up period, the mean volume of the 206 nodules was 100.1\u2009±\u200992.9\u2009mm3 (range 3.6–423.9) before MWA, which decreased to 2.2\u2009±\u20095.6\u2009mm3 (range 0–20.3\u2009mm3) after MWA (P\u2009=\u20090.000). The mean VRR of the nodules was 98.65\u2009±\u20093.60% after MWA (range 83.85–100%). One hundred and seventy four of 206 nodules (84.5%) were fully absorbed. Compared with the preoperative results, no significant variation in thyroid function was observed 1 month after MWA. Thirty-eight patients (20.5%) had different types of complications, ranging from minor to major. Five patients (2.7%) had hoarseness, 11 patients (5.9%) had bleeding, 21 patients (11.4%) had earache or toothache, and one patient had another lesion 1 month after MWA.ConclusionsThis preliminary study suggests that MWA is safe and effective in the treatment of primary PTMC and offers a new alternative for clinical treatment.