“I lost my thyroid function because of that. But there are lots of nodules out there that don’t need thyroidectomy and RFA can be a great option.”
Dr. Lindsey VanDyke’s personal experience with thyroid cancer at the young age of 22 has profoundly shaped her medical perspective. After undergoing a thyroidectomy, which removed her thyroid due to cancer, she understands the weight of such a decision. While it was the appropriate choice for her at the time, not every patient with thyroid nodules needs to undergo surgery. This is where Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) comes into play as a game-changing option for many.
“Not everyone with thyroid nodules needs surgery”
A personal story
At 22, Dr. VanDyke faced the reality of thyroid cancer. The treatment—removal of the thyroid—was essential to address the cancer, but it came with lifelong consequences. Losing her thyroid function meant managing her hormone levels with medication for the rest of her life. While this was necessary in her case, she is passionate about offering patients alternative treatments when appropriate, especially for benign thyroid nodules.
“Not everyone with thyroid nodules needs surgery,” she explains. “There are a lot of nodules out there that aren’t cancerous, and for those cases, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) can be an excellent option.”
What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
RFA is a minimally invasive procedure designed to shrink thyroid nodules without the need for surgery. Unlike a thyroidectomy, RFA involves no large incisions—just a small needle insertion. This procedure is particularly effective for patients with benign thyroid nodules who wish to avoid surgery and preserve thyroid function.
Key points about RFA:
- No incision required: RFA is performed with a small needle stick, avoiding the need for a surgical incision. This reduces the risk of scarring and recovery time.
- Shrink nodules effectively: Over the course of 3 to 6 months, RFA can shrink thyroid nodules by up to 80%, allowing patients to keep their thyroid function intact.
- Local anesthesia: Patients are awake during the procedure, which is done under local anesthesia, similar to a thyroid biopsy or a dental cavity filling.
- Quick recovery: Since there is no sedation, patients can return to their regular activities the same day, avoiding the downtime associated with surgery.
The benefits of RFA
The impact of RFA goes beyond the physical benefits. For patients who are concerned about losing thyroid function or who want to avoid the risks and complications of surgery, RFA is a safe, effective option.
Studies have shown that the long-term data on RFA is promising, with fewer complications compared to traditional thyroid surgery. This is especially important for patients who want to maintain their thyroid function and avoid lifelong dependence on hormone replacement therapy.
Dr. VanDyke stresses the importance of considering RFA for patients with benign thyroid nodules: “If you don’t have thyroid cancer, RFA offers a great alternative to surgery. It’s an in-office procedure, requires no sedation, and patients can go back to their normal life that same day.”
A better option for many
For patients like Dr. VanDyke, whose cancer necessitated the removal of the thyroid, surgery was the right path. However, she emphasizes that not everyone needs to take that route. RFA offers a powerful alternative for those looking to preserve their thyroid function while effectively managing their nodules.
Through her own story and the lives of countless patients she’s helped, Dr. VanDyke highlights the transformative role that RFA can play in thyroid care. By shrinking nodules without the need for surgery, RFA empowers patients to take control of their health without the risks of more invasive treatments.
The future of thyroid care
Dr. VanDyke’s message is clear: not every thyroid nodule requires surgery. With advanced procedures like RFA, many patients can find a less invasive solution that allows them to maintain thyroid function and avoid the complications of surgery.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a benign thyroid nodule, talk to your healthcare provider about RFA. It may be the alternative you’ve been looking for.
Take control of your thyroid health today!
If you’re concerned about thyroid nodules or want to explore minimally invasive options like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), the Advanced Institute for Diabetes & Endocrinology in Dallas, TX is here to help. Our team of experts, led by Dr. Lindsey VanDyke, DO, FACOI, FEAA, specializes in thyroid care and will guide you through personalized treatment options that best suit your health needs.
📅 Schedule your consultation today to learn more about RFA and how it can preserve your thyroid function while effectively treating your nodules.
🎥 Watch Dr. VanDyke’s story in the video to hear firsthand how RFA can make a difference for patients with thyroid nodules.
