Thyroid Microwave Ablation (MWA) is a revolutionary minimally invasive treatment for benign thyroid nodules and selected malignant thyroid conditions. It uses precisely controlled microwave energy to destroy targeted thyroid tissue through a needle-like probe, without requiring open surgery or general anesthesia.
At CARE CHL Hospital, Indore, Dr. Alok K. Udiya, a pioneer in Interventional Radiology, offers ultrasound-guided microwave ablation as a safe and effective alternative to thyroidectomy. This procedure is particularly suitable for patients who want to avoid a surgical scar, preserve thyroid function, and experience faster recovery.
Whether your thyroid nodule is symptomatic, cosmetically visible, or hormonally active, MWA provides a scar-free, organ-sparing solution.
Key Benefits of the Treatment
Thyroid MWA is gaining global recognition as a game-changer in thyroid care, especially for patients with benign nodules. Benefits include:
- No Surgery, No Scar: Performed using a thin probe through a small skin puncture.
- Preserves Thyroid Function: Unlike surgery, the thyroid gland remains intact and continues to function normally.
- Outpatient Procedure: Typically completed in 15–30 minutes with same-day discharge.
- Minimal Pain & Downtime: Most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours.
- No General Anesthesia: Conducted under local anesthesia with real-time ultrasound guidance.
- Excellent Cosmetic Outcome: No visible scars or stitches.
- Effective Volume Reduction: Nodules shrink by 50–90% over 6–12 months.
- Safe for High-Risk Patients: Suitable for elderly or those unfit for surgery.
How This Treatment Works
MWA delivers controlled thermal energy into the nodule, causing coagulative necrosis (destruction of abnormal cells) while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
1.
Evaluation and Planning
Initial evaluation includes:
- Ultrasound of the thyroid gland
- Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAC) to confirm nodule type
- Thyroid function tests (T3, T4, TSH)
- Selection of suitable nodules:
- Benign solid or mixed thyroid nodules
- Autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTN)
- Small recurrent thyroid cancers (in selected cases)
2.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
- Patients are instructed to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
- Blood clotting profile is reviewed.
- Anti-thyroid medications may be adjusted.
3.
The Procedure
- The patient lies in a comfortable position with neck extended.
- A local anesthetic is applied to the skin and subcutaneous tissue.
- Under ultrasound guidance, a microwave antenna is inserted directly into the nodule.
- Microwave energy is delivered, heating the target tissue to ~60–100°C.
- The heat destroys abnormal cells, causing the nodule to shrink over time.
4.
Post-Procedure Care
- Observation for 1–2 hours.
- Mild soreness or swelling may occur and resolves quickly.
- Thyroid function is monitored post-procedure.
- Follow-up ultrasounds are scheduled at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.
Why Choose Dr. Alok K. Udiya for Thyroid MWA?
As one of the early adopters of thyroid ablation in Central India, Dr. Alok K. Udiya brings unmatched precision and safety to this innovative procedure.
- Performed over 100+ successful thyroid ablations
- Utilizes latest microwave equipment with safety protocols
- Member of international thyroid ablation forums and IR societies
- Personalized treatment planning with surgical backup if needed
- Expertise in ultrasound-guided intervention
- Seamless coordination with endocrinologists and ENT surgeons
FAQs – Thyroid Microwave Ablation
Q1. Who is an ideal candidate for MWA?
Patients with benign thyroid nodules, cosmetic neck swelling, or non-cancerous autonomously functioning nodules are best suited.
Q2. Is MWA painful?
No. It is performed under local anesthesia. You may feel pressure or mild heat, but no significant pain.
Q3. What is the success rate of thyroid MWA?
Volume reduction is around 60–90% over 6–12 months. Most patients see symptom relief within weeks.
Q4. Is general anesthesia required?
No. The procedure is done under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.
Q5. Will I need to take thyroid medications after MWA?
Usually not. Since the thyroid gland remains intact, thyroid hormone production is preserved.
Q6. What are the risks or side effects?
Minor risks include temporary voice hoarseness, swelling, or hematoma. Serious complications are very rare in experienced hands.
Q7. How is this different from thyroid surgery?
MWA avoids a neck incision, has a quicker recovery, and preserves the thyroid gland, making it a more conservative option for benign nodules.
Q8. Can MWA treat thyroid cancer?
MWA is not a first-line treatment for thyroid cancer but may be used in small, recurrent papillary cancers when surgery is not feasible.
Q9. Is this procedure covered by insurance?
Yes, many private insurers are now recognizing MWA under minimally invasive interventions. Our team assists with pre-approvals.