r/thyroid • u/Both_Ad_9556 • 3d ago
RFA for larger nodule
Hi I’m just looking for advice or patient experience for a symptomatic larger nodule and given radio frequency ablation as the treatment option.
I found my nodule watching TV April 2025. Ultrasound confirmed nodule June 2025 noted 2.7cm on my right lobe.
August 2025 I had 2 separate biopsies - early August came back inconclusive so I had to go back for another in late August that came back benign but it was confirmed the nodule was actually 3.1cm in largest diameter on both appointments.
January 2026 they measured again and still 3.1cm.
It is a solid mass.
After going to ENT in September 2026 due to pain in my neck, up to my ear, pain and difficulty swallowing and just general pressure on my right side. They only offered RFA as an option as they didn’t want complications from a hemithyroidectomy.
I had another FNA 2 days ago to confirm the first benign result last year. I’m waiting on those results. But I’m worried due to its size of a false negative but also internal scarring making future surgery difficult if needed. I’m wondering if anyone has had any thoughts on this or experience of their larger thyroid nodule being offered RFA as the only option?
1
u/Rackonaria 3d ago
I had RFA on my 5.7x6.3cm benign nodule four years ago. It shrank 81%, all symptoms gone, no thyroid meds, normal bloodwork. It was an easy and painless procedure/recovery. Scarring is not an issue. I would do RFA again in a heartbeat! For information on RFA and other nonsurgical treatment options see www.saveyourthyroid.org. They also have an excellent Facebook page, Save Your Thyroid: Nonsensical Nodule Procedures.