Barbra Miller, MD, and John Phay, MD, created The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center's thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) program and began performing procedures in February 2023, the first in central Ohio. The minimally invasive procedure shrinks the size of thyroid nodules and lymph nodes by using radio waves to create heat that reduces the size of the area of concern. Thyroid RFA is performed in the clinic, obviates the need for general anesthesia and protects normal thyroid tissue, leading to less need for thyroid hormone supplementation than surgery. Dr. Miller says, “While thyroid RFA has been performed in some countries for many years and has a similar safety profile to surgery, it is still relatively new in the United States. It’s a wonderful option for patients. RFA gives us yet another way to customize treatment for patients with thyroid disorders.”
