High-intensity focused ultrasound for benign thyroid nodules: Systemic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a less invasive option offered for the treatment of large, compressive, benign thyroid nodules.

Methods: Observational studies of more than five participants using HIFU in the management of benign thyroid nodules from 2000 to 2021 were identified using predefined inclusion criteria. The primary outcome was an estimate of the effectiveness of HIFU.

Results: Out of 158 studies reviewed, 8 articles were included with 297 patients and 300 nodules. HIFU significantly reduced nodule volume from 1 to 24 months following therapy (weighted mean difference [WMD], 47.68, 95 % confidence interval [CI], 34.13-59.66, p < 0.0001) and achieved favorable success rates (risk ratio [RR], 1.49, 95 % CI, 1.15-1.84, p < 0.001) for 50 % volume reduction.

Conclusions: HIFU appears to be a feasible, safe, and effective treatment modality for patients with benign thyroid nodules. Future research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to determine therapy optimization, and patient selection to identify the potential role of this new therapy.

Keywords: Benign thyroid nodule; High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU); Symptomatic thyroid nodule; Thermal ablation; Thyroid nodules.