The mission of TNTC is preservation of normal thyroid function while treating benign symptomatic thyroid nodules using the most advance minimally invasive treatments available.
The proper evaluation of these nodules is very routine. Much of the thyroid assessment is based on the size of the nodule. Once nodules measure about 15 mm, size criteria are met for recommending an ultrasound guided biopsy. If there are some concerning features seen on ultrasound in a smaller nodule, a biopsy can be performed even if the size criteria are not met. Additionally, a nodule which is enlarging over a short time period should be sampled under ultrasound guidance. Very small nodules under 6 mm do not require a biopsy under most conditions.
Many patients inquire if the presence of a nodule alters thyroid function. Generally, nodules do not alter normal thyroid function. Routine blood testing are performed to assess thyroid function. Hypothyroidism is not caused by thyroid nodules. If a patient has hypothyroidism, they should be thoroughly evaluated by their primary physician or an endocrinologist. Hyperthyroidism is rarely caused by toxic thyroid nodules. These nodules hyper-function and drive the hormone levels to an abnormal range. These over-functioning nodules cause symptoms of fatigue, insomnia, increased heart rate, and heat intolerance. If these symptoms exists an endocrinologist is needed to regulate and suppress the thyroid function to normal levels. Further interventions can then be considered to restore normal thyroid function.
Everyday new thyroid nodules are discovered by their physicians, family, friends, and even their hairdressers! Some people have symptoms related to the size of the nodules, which directs them to seek medical consultation. Others have no symptoms but learn about these nodules after undergoing radiologic testing for different reasons. The majority of thyroid nodules are benign. The most readily available modality for evaluating these is the ultrasound. The test is easily performed and avoids radiation exposure. The physician performed exam is much better than reviewing the still images saved on prior examinations. The study is easily repeated with no potential harm to the patient. With thyroid ultrasound there are several features in benign nodules that we like to identify to consider a lesion low risk of malignancy. When some of these features are absent, the nodule would be considered indeterminate, or potentially at risk for malignancy. These nodules will be tested using a biopsy to help the physician guide therapy. Not all nodules have the favorable ultrasound characteristics, and yet they may prove benign on biopsy. Additionally, a small percentage of nodules can have favorable findings on ultrasound and yet can be found to have papillary thyroid cancer. It is for these reasons that routine surveillance ultrasound is initiated once a nodule grows to about 15 mm in largest dimension.
Typical charges for thyroid surgery range between $55,000-$65,000. The charge for Thyroid RFA ranges between $5,000 and $15,000 depending upon where it is performed. This is approximately 10% of the total charges associated with surgery.
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Dr. Harding interviewed on ABC News Sonoran Living segment
3D animation video showing the principles of the moving shot technique when performing a Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) of the Thyroid under ultrasound guidance.
Thyroid Nodule Radiofrequency Ablation Lecture With Richard Harding, MD, FACS
The treatment of these thyroid nodules varies on the nature of the nodules as well as the symptoms produced. Any malignancy will need to be removed if it is over 15 mm. Some smaller malignancies are now being followed without surgery. These are followed utilizing strict criteria and under research- based protocols. The success of this non-operative surveillance of small cancers has been very successful.
Small nodules tend not to create symptoms, whereas large nodules can create many problems such as difficulty with breathing when laying flat, difficulty with swallowing solid food (pills), and even a chronic cough. Nodules with compression symptoms can be removed with surgery. If they are not cancer and not suspicious for the possibility of cancer, than a minimally invasive, ultrasound guided therapy can effectively destroy the nodule. This treatment applies energy directly to heat it up to the point of tissue death. Once the tissue is devitalized, the body walls off and slowly reabsorbs the treated tissue. This method leaves the adjacent normal tissue unharmed and thus preserves the thyroid function. Unfortunately, with surgery the entire side (lobe) is generally removed due to safety concerns. This unavoidably removes the abnormal and normal tissue on the entire side. Approximately 60-75% of these patients will require thyroid hormone supplementation.
If a biopsy raises a concern for the possibility of cancer, then surgery is recommended to allow for proper analysis of the tissue by pathologist. The surgery should be performed by a surgeon very familiar with thyroid operations, and who performs them regularly. The definition of a high- volume thyroid surgeon is currently established at 25 operations annually.
The Thyroid Nodule Treatment Center is available to navigate the numerous diagnostic and therapeutic options with you. Patients with normal thyroid function and who are symptomatic from large thyroid nodules can present immediately to review treatment options. This includes large visible nodules which are cosmetically distracting. The most innovative therapy may be available to you. International studies demonstrate excellent immediate and long- term results with radiofrequency ablation. A list of expert endocrinologists will be provided for those patients who have a complex endocrine history and require further evaluation, and long term care.
I developed a large nodule on my neck that was making it difficult for me to swallow. This growth made it uncomfortable to exercise as well since it affected my breathing.Dr. Harding performed RFA on my nodule, and almost instantly, I felt like a new person. My discomfort and insecurity disappeared that same day and the nodule was noticeably smaller within the first week.It has been 8 months since the procedure and my nodule has been reduced by about 75%. I don't notice it at all, nor do my family or friends. Getting this procedure done has made my life more enjoyable and given me back my confidence. I am grateful for Dr. Harding and would recommend RFA to anyone in my situation.The procedure itself was painless and fairly quick.
Dr. Harding performed RFA on my large, benign thyroid nodule in March of 2020. From my first visit with him, I knew I was in good hands. He took a lot of time with me explaining the procedure and answering all of my questions. He is very professional but also friendly. While in his care, I have felt that he genuinely is concerned about my well being. My RFA procedure went very well. I was only his 3rd patient in the U.S. to have RFA but he and his staff put me at ease. I knew I was lucky to have this well renowned surgeon in my hometown of Phoenix willing to give me the option of RFA over thyroid removal! My nodule has shrunk about 80% in volume over the past year and I no longer have a deviated windpipe causing choking nor the potential for further complications. I am so thankful I was able to preserve my thyroid and avoid surgery!
I had a great experience with the Thyroid RFA. I underwent Thyroid RFA for a hyper-functioning thyroid nodule. Since the surgery, I no longer have to take daily medication for hyperthyroidism. My symptoms have all significantly improved since undergoing the Thyroid RFA procedure. The team at the Thyroid Nodule Treatment Center were all very supportive. Dr. Harding always made feel seen and heard. The medical staff provided great encouragement during the procedure. I appreciated the in-office ultrasound for real-time feedback on the reduction in size of the thyroid nodule. The ability to preserve your thyroid function by avoiding surgery is absolutely worth it!"
I chose the Thyroid RFA procedure, as opposed to traditional surgery, for several reasons. For one, I wanted to purse a minimally invasive route. Additionally, I wanted to avoid surgery in the hospital setting, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. I had no apprehension with pursuing Thyroid RFA. The procedure itself was painless once the local anesthetic took effect, and afterwards I only had minor neck tenderness that improved with Tylenol. Since the procedure, my vocal hoarseness and swallowing has improved significantly. Dr. Harding is very knowledgeable and the staff are professional. I would recommend getting evaluated to determine if you are a good candidate for the Thyroid RFA procedure.
I had a great experience with the Thyroid RFA procedure. Before the Thyroid RFA procedure, I was having issues swallowing and experiencing a frequent cough. However, after undergoing the Thyroid RFA procedure, my nodule shrunk and my symptoms have completely resolved. I felt very comfortable during the procedure. To me, pursuing the option of RFA made a lot more sense than conventional surgery, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. I felt like I was in good hands with Dr. Harding- he is phenomenal!
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