2022 Taiwan clinical multicenter expert consensus and recommendations for thyroid radiofrequency ablation

Ultrasonography. 2023 Jul;42(3):357-375. doi: 10.14366/usg.22126. Epub 2022 Nov 19.

Abstract

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive management strategy that has been widely applied for benign and recurrent malignant thyroid lesions as an alternative to surgery in Taiwan. Members of academic societies for specialists in interventional radiology, endocrinology, and endocrine surgery collaborated to develop the first consensus regarding thyroid RFA in Taiwan. The modified Delphi method was used to reach a consensus. Based on a comprehensive review of recent and valuable literature and expert opinions, the recommendations included indications, pre-procedural evaluations, procedural techniques, post-procedural monitoring, efficacy, and safety, providing a comprehensive review of the application of RFA. The consensus effectively consolidates advice regarding thyroid RFA in clinical practice for local experts.

Keywords: Consensus; Locally recurrent thyroid cancer; Nodule; Radiofrequency ablation; Thyroid; Ultrasound.