Thyroid
Nodules

Thyroid Nodule Microwave Ablation:
A Gentle, Non-Surgical Solution

Say goodbye to thyroid nodules—without surgery or scars. At IR Clinic, we understand how thyroid nodules can cause worry or discomfort. That’s why we offer minimally invasive ablation treatments—a safe, effective alternative to surgery.

What are Thyroid Nodules?

Thyroid nodules are small lumps that form in your thyroid gland (located at the base of your neck). Most are harmless and non-cancerous, but some can grow large enough to cause:

  • A visible neck bulge
  • Trouble swallowing or breathing
  • Hoarseness or throat discomfort
  • Hormonal imbalances (in rare cases)
The good news? Most nodules don’t require surgery—ablation can often shrink them comfortably.

What Causes a Thyroid Nodule to Form?

Thyroid nodules develop for various reasons, and while many patients worry about cancer, it’s important to know most nodules are benign. The development of these growths can be influenced by:

Normal Aging

Thyroid tissue changes over time

Iodine Deficiency

(rare in countries with iodized salt)

Overgrowth of Normal Thyroid Tissue

("adenomas")

Thyroid Cysts

Fluid-filled nodules

Chronic Thyroid Inflammation

(Hashimoto's disease)

Family History

of thyroid nodules or goiter

Important Note: The vast majority of thyroid nodules are completely benign—in fact, less than 5% are cancerous. During your consultation, we’ll carefully evaluate your nodule through ultrasound and any necessary tests to rule out concerns. If further evaluation is needed, we’ll guide you through every step with clarity and care.

How do you know if you have thyroid nodules?

Most thyroid nodules do not produce any symptoms. However, if you have several nodules or large nodules, you may be able to see them. Although rare, nodules can press against other structures in the neck and cause symptoms, including:

  • Trouble with swallowing or breathing
  • Hoarseness or voice change
  • Pain in the neck
  • Goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland)

How can thyroid
nodules be treated?

Watch Demo Video of Procedure
Treatment depends on the nodule’s size and symptoms. Many small nodules just need monitoring. For problematic ones, we offer microwave ablation – a precise, minimally invasive treatment that shrinks nodules using guided heat energy. It requires no surgery, leaves no scar, and has quick recovery. Surgery is only needed in rare cases. We’ll recommend the best option for you.

No Surgery

No incisions, no scarring

Quick Procedure

Usually completed in under an hour

Minimal Downtime

Return to normal activities soon after

Preserves Healthy Tissue

Targets only the nodule

Ultrasound Guided Precision

Ensures safety and accuracy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1What is microwave ablation?

Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that uses heat energy to shrink thyroid nodules. A thin probe is inserted through the skin to deliver targeted heat, which reduces the nodule’s size while preserving healthy thyroid tissue. While this technique has been used for years to treat cancers in other organs, its application for benign (non-cancerous) thyroid nodules is newer—with excellent safety and effectiveness results.

2Is microwave ablation brand new?

The technique itself isn’t new—it’s been used globally for other conditions—but its use for thyroid nodules is more recent. Our team was the first to offer it in the UK after NICE approval, building on established methods like radiofrequency ablation (RFA). We prefer microwave ablation for certain cases because of its technical advantages, and our early patients have reported high satisfaction with both the procedure and results.

3How does it compare to surgery?

Microwave ablation offers significant benefits over traditional surgery:

  • Minimally invasive: Tiny incision (~1 cm) vs. large surgical scars
  • Quick & convenient: Done in ~30 minutes under local anesthesia (you’re awake), with same-day discharge
  • Faster recovery: Return to normal activities sooner, no hospital stay
  • Lower risks: Reduced chance of nerve injury, permanent thyroid hormone replacement, or visible scarring
4Are there risks?

While generally safe, potential risks include:

  • Temporary voice changes (rare)
  • Minor bleeding, infection, or skin burns
  • Very small chance of nodule regrowth years later
  • Extremely low risk of needing emergency surgery

Note: These complications occur much less frequently than with surgery. We’ll discuss your personal risk factors during consultation.

5Who is a good candidate?

You may be eligible if you:

    • Have bothersome nodules >2 cm (but not extending into the chest)
    • Can lie flat for the procedure
    • Prefer a non-surgical option

Some patients with multiple nodules may need 2–3 sessions. Our team collaborates with endocrinologists and surgeons to ensure the best approach for your case.