Ultrasound and Cytological Evaluation 3 Years After Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation of Benign Thyroid Nodules: a Prospective Exploratory Cohort of 180 Nodules

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are examining benign thyroid nodules that have been treated with radiofrequency thermal ablation about three years ago. The study aims to understand the ultrasound and cytological changes in these nodules, as current tools like the EU-TIRADS classification are not validated for nodules treated by thermal ablation. This research will help develop a specific ultrasound risk classification and a cytological atlas based on the Bethesda 2017 classification for these treated nodules. The study involves patients who underwent thermal ablation for benign thyroid nodules at least 36 months prior. These patients receive systematic evaluations including neck ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), a minimally invasive procedure using very fine needles performed by experienced sonographers. The research will gather detailed ultrasound data on nodule size, volume, echogenicity, and echostructure, along with cytological assessments. Participants attend clinical and ultrasound monitoring as part of their follow-up. On the biopsy day, researchers assess changes in nodule cells according to the Bethesda classification and describe ultrasound features like size and composition. The study focuses on monitoring these nodules three years after treatment, with patients monitored annually by the Thyroid Disease and Endocrine Tumor Department. This ongoing evaluation helps to track the nodules’ behavior and potential changes over time.

Ultrasound and Cytological Evaluation 3 Years After Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation of Benign Thyroid Nodules : a Prospective Exploratory Cohort of 180 Nodules