RFAMD

Find an RFA doctor at www.rfamd.com

Parathyroid adenomas are a common medical condition that results from the abnormal growth of one or more parathyroid glands. Patients with this condition may suffer from symptoms like high parathyroid hormone levels, high calcium levels, osteoporosis, and even kidney stones. While surgery is the traditional treatment for parathyroid adenomas, it can be difficult and traumatic for the patient, especially when the adenomas are located deep in the neck. In recent years, ablation therapy has emerged as an alternative to surgery for treating parathyroid adenomas.

To learn more about ablation therapy for parathyroid adenomas, we interviewed Dr. Bülent Çekiç, an interventional radiologist from Turkey who has treated over 4,000 cases of thyroid ablation. Dr. Çekiç is well known for not only treating patients but also training other doctors in ablation therapy. According to Dr. Çekiç, parathyroid ablation can be a quick, comfortable, and fast resolution with no surgery.

During the interview, Dr. Çekiç explained that parathyroid adenomas can be fixed through ablation. He emphasized that the most crucial aspect of the procedure is a very good thyroid section before ablation. After a thorough examination of the patient's condition, including laboratory tests and parathyroid scintigraphy, Dr. Çekiç and his team can perform ablation therapy, which typically takes only between 10 and 15 minutes. The procedure time is minimal, and patients can return to normal life in maximum one hour. Moreover, after only one day, the patient's parathormone levels return to normal. Dr. Çekiç also highlighted that parathyroid ablation is very close to the regular laryngeal nerve, which is why a good thyroid section is vital before ablation.

Dr. Çekiç also noted that parathyroid adenomas are mostly small, with a size of between 1 and 2 centimeters, and their stiffness is low. He explained that the ablation time is maximum one or two minutes, and the pilot trade adenoma ablation time is between three and four minutes. He added that only after 20 or 30 minutes, the patients can be discharged.

In conclusion, ablation therapy is a promising alternative to surgery for treating parathyroid adenomas. According to Dr. Çekiç, it is effective, comfortable, and fast, with a quick recovery time. Patients can return to normal life in maximum one hour, and their parathormone levels return to normal after only one day. Dr. Çekiç's extensive experience in thyroid ablation makes him an excellent resource for patients and doctors alike. If you're looking for an ablation doctor, you can visit rfamd.com, the premier global directory of ablation doctors.

🔷🔷🔷🔷 The Doctor Thyroid and RFAMD podcast with Philip James is listened to in 100+ countries. It is a preferred patient resource for information related to thyroid cancer, RFA, hypothyroidism, pathology, and radiation therapy.

Contact Philip at [email protected]

www.rfamd.com www.docthyroid.com

Dr. Bülent Çekiç is a leading expert in thyroid thermal ablation, specifically microwave and radiofrequency ablation. He has treated over 3500 cases using these methods since 2013, and has published 8 articles on the topic in Pubmed. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Çekiç has also organized 14 workshops on thyroid thermal ablation in his own clinic and 7 workshops in various countries. These workshops have been attended by a total of 40 local and 70 international doctors. Dr. Çekiç has also presented on thyroid thermal ablation at international interventional radiology congresses such as CCMA, CIRSE, TRD, TGRD, and PAIRS.

In recent years, he has also begun offering thyroid artery embolization as a non-surgical treatment option for Plonjuan goiter and diffuse goiter, and has treated nearly 70 cases using this method.

Dr. Bulent Cekic is currently working as a chief at the Antalya Research and Training Hospital. He has received his MD from Ataturk University. He specialized in Interventional Radiology.

Language Spoken: Turkish, German, English

View Full Profile:Dr. Bülent Çekiç

He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)

www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected]

Instagram: @PhilipJames360

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

Facebook: @philipb07

YouTube: @Doctor Thyroid Twitter : @docthyroid

Dr. Çekiç is well-known for not only treating patients but also training other doctors in the field of ablation. #ablation #thyroid #thyroidcancer

@DoctorThyroid Find an RFA doctor at www.rfamd.com

Thyroid nodules can cause discomfort, pain, and even serious health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, ablation therapy offers a non-invasive solution to treating these nodules. Two popular types of ablation are radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation. But which one is best for treating thyroid nodules?

To help answer this question, we sat down with Dr. Bülent Çekiç, an interventional radiologist from Turkey who has treated over 4,000 cases of thyroid ablation. Dr. Çekiç is well-known for not only treating patients but also training other doctors in the field of ablation.

Dr. Çekiç explained that both RFA and microwave ablation aim to achieve a similar goal: to raise the temperature of the nodule to between 60 and 100 Celsius. However, there are some key differences between the two techniques.

In RFA, the heat causes frictional and conductive heat, and the antenna used is thinner at 18 or 19 gauge. The machine automatically stops above 800 ohms to prevent carbonization, which can lead to a lower volume reduction rate. However, in selected patients, RFA can offer a slightly higher volume reduction rate.

Microwave ablation, on the other hand, doesn't use ground pads, so patients don't experience any electrical current passing through their bodies. This makes it a suitable option for patients with pacemakers, joint prostheses, or dental implants. Patients also typically experience less pain with microwave ablation, and the technique can be used on larger tissue volumes in the same amount of time.

Dr. Çekiç shared that he primarily uses microwave ablation for his patients, as it is faster and causes less pain, making it an appealing option for patients with large nodules. However, he stressed that the most important factor in determining which ablation technique to use is the experience and skill level of the operator.

In some cases, Dr. Çekiç has used both RFA and microwave ablation on the same patient. For example, if a patient has a large nodule with a hypervascular or bleeding component, he may use microwave ablation first to avoid thermal injury and then follow up with RFA to ensure complete ablation of the peripheral margins of the nodule.

Dr. Çekiç emphasized that when it comes to offering ablation therapy, the most important thing is the experience and skill level of the operator. He recommended that any doctors interested in offering ablation therapy should prioritize training and developing their skills before treating patients.

In conclusion, both RFA and microwave ablation are effective treatments for thyroid nodules. Ultimately, the best technique to use depends on the specific case and the experience and skill level of the operator. Patients should consult with an experienced ablation therapist to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs.

🔷🔷🔷🔷 The Doctor Thyroid and RFAMD podcast with Philip James is listened to in 100+ countries. It is a preferred patient resource for information related to thyroid cancer, RFA, hypothyroidism, pathology, and radiation therapy.

Contact Philip at [email protected]

www.rfamd.com www.docthyroid.com

Dr. Bülent Çekiç is a leading expert in thyroid thermal ablation, specifically microwave and radiofrequency ablation. He has treated over 3500 cases using these methods since 2013, and has published 8 articles on the topic in Pubmed. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Çekiç has also organized 14 workshops on thyroid thermal ablation in his own clinic and 7 workshops in various countries. These workshops have been attended by a total of 40 local and 70 international doctors. Dr. Çekiç has also presented on thyroid thermal ablation at international interventional radiology congresses such as CCMA, CIRSE, TRD, TGRD, and PAIRS.

In recent years, he has also begun offering thyroid artery embolization as a non-surgical treatment option for Plonjuan goiter and diffuse goiter, and has treated nearly 70 cases using this method.

Dr. Bulent Cekic is currently working as a chief at the Antalya Research and Training Hospital. He has received his MD from Ataturk University. He specialized in Interventional Radiology.

Language Spoken: Turkish, German, English

View Full Profile:Dr. Bülent Çekiç

He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)

www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected]

Instagram: @PhilipJames360

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

Facebook: @philipb07

YouTube: @Doctor Thyroid Twitter : @docthyroid

Dr. Bülent Çekiç has treated over 4000 thyroid ablation cases, and in some days treats as many as 28 patients.

Thyroid ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that has become an effective treatment option for patients with benign thyroid nodules. The procedure involves the use of thermal energy to destroy the thyroid tissue and shrink the nodule, ultimately relieving the patient of symptoms associated with the nodule. However, not all thyroid nodules are suitable for ablation, and patient selection is crucial in determining the success of the procedure.

Dr. Bülent Çekiç is an Interventional Radiologist from Turkey who has treated over 4,000 cases of thyroid ablation in the past 7 years, making him an expert in the field. In this podcast, we will discuss the patient selection and follow-up after thyroid ablation with Dr. Çekiç.

Patient Selection Dr. Çekiç emphasized that patient selection is vital in determining the success of thyroid ablation. The best candidates for thyroid ablation are nodules with spongy form echo structures, high liquid component, and intense peripheral or intranodal patterns of vascularity. Dr. Çekiç also uses shear elastography, an ultrasound method to measure the stiffness of the nodule, which is critical in determining the effectiveness of ablation. In his clinical practice, he found that nodules with a stiffness value under 30 kilopascals have a minimum 70 percent reduction rate. The volume of the nodule is also an essential factor in determining whether the nodule is suitable for ablation. Nodules under ten centimeters are better candidates for ablation, while nodules between ten to fifteen centimeters may require a second session of treatment.

Cosmetic score is also an important factor in patient selection. Dr. Çekiç recommends selecting nodules with a high cosmetic score as most patients want to see the results after the procedure. Patients with nodules with low echogenicity, high microcalcifications, or stiffness (above 50 kilopascal) are not good candidates for ablation.

Follow Up Follow-up after thyroid ablation is crucial in monitoring the patient's progress and identifying any potential complications. Dr. Çekiç recommends that patients undergo follow-up visits at three months, six months, and one year after the procedure.

During the follow-up visits, Dr. Çekiç evaluates the patient's symptoms, measures the nodule's size, and performs ultrasound imaging to monitor the nodule's characteristics. If the nodule's size has not decreased significantly, additional treatment may be necessary. In rare cases, patients may experience complications such as pain, hoarseness, or skin burns. Dr. Çekiç stressed the importance of monitoring patients for these complications and treating them accordingly.

Thyroid ablation is an effective treatment option for patients with benign or malignant thyroid nodules.

Patient selection is crucial in determining the success of the procedure, and nodules with spongy form echo structures, high liquid component, and intense peripheral or intranodal patterns of vascularity are the best candidates for ablation.

Follow-up visits are essential in monitoring the patient's progress and identifying any potential complications. Dr. Çekiç's experience in patient selection and follow-up has led to his success in treating over 4,000 cases of thyroid ablation.

Dr. Bülent Çekiç is a leading expert in thyroid thermal ablation, specifically microwave and radiofrequency ablation. He has treated over 3500 cases using these methods since 2013, and has published 8 articles on the topic in Pubmed. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Çekiç has also organized 14 workshops on thyroid thermal ablation in his own clinic and 7 workshops in various countries. These workshops have been attended by a total of 40 local and 70 international doctors. Dr. Çekiç has also presented on thyroid thermal ablation at international interventional radiology congresses such as CCMA, CIRSE, TRD, TGRD, and PAIRS.

In recent years, he has also begun offering thyroid artery embolization as a non-surgical treatment option for Plonjuan goiter and diffuse goiter, and has treated nearly 70 cases using this method.

Dr. Bulent Cekic is currently working as a chief at the Antalya Research and Training Hospital. He has received his MD from Ataturk University. He specialized in Interventional Radiology.

Language Spoken: Turkish, German, English

View Full Profile: Dr. Bülent Çekiç

He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)

www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected]

Instagram: @PhilipJames360

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

Facebook: @philipb07

YouTube: @Doctor Thyroid Twitter : @docthyroid

Thyroid nodules affect millions of people worldwide, and while most are benign, some can become cancerous and require surgery. However, a new treatment option has emerged, offering patients an alternative to surgery. Microwave ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that destroys abnormal tissue using thermal energy, is now available in Thailand, and it is changing the way thyroid nodules are treated.

Dr. Thanyawat (Dr. Max), a leading specialist in the field, is one of the experts performing this innovative procedure at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok. During the procedure, a small needle is inserted into the thyroid nodule using ultrasound guidance. The needle emits microwave energy that heats and destroys the nodule's abnormal tissue, while leaving the healthy tissue intact. The procedure is quick, lasting around 20 minutes, and is done under local anesthesia. The patient is awake throughout the procedure and can communicate with the doctor during the treatment.

Microwave ablation offers numerous benefits over traditional surgery. First and foremost, it is minimally invasive, meaning it avoids the risks and complications associated with surgery. Additionally, it is less painful and requires less recovery time than surgery. Patients also have a reduced risk of scarring and a lower chance of vocal cord injury, which can occur during surgery.

While microwave ablation is a new treatment option, it is not suitable for all thyroid nodules. Doctors will evaluate each patient's case to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. However, for those who are eligible, microwave ablation is a promising new treatment option.

With the arrival of microwave ablation in Thailand, patients with thyroid nodules have a new option for treatment without undergoing surgery. Dr. Thanyawat (Dr. Max) and his team at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok are leading the way in this innovative treatment, giving hope to patients who may have previously felt surgery was their only option.

Microwave ablation is a game-changing treatment option for patients with thyroid nodules; its minimally invasive nature, reduced recovery time, and lower risk of complications make it an attractive alternative to surgery. Thanks to Dr. Thanyawat (Dr. Max) and his team at the Police General Hospital in Bangkok, patients in Thailand now have access to this innovative treatment option.

Dr. Thanyawat Sasanakietkul is a Surgical Oncologist with more than 20 years of professional experience. He specializes in Breast Surgery, Head & Neck Surgical Oncology. He is a member of the Thai Medical Council.

Facebook: ผ่าตัดไทรอยด์

ECO Microwave is actively involved in microwave,high-frequency and laser fields. Established in 2000, ECO is one of the largest medical device manufacturer integrated with research and development, production and marketing in China. Ever since its establishment, ECO has been working to deliver the most advanced medical technology and provide integrated solutions for healthcare industry all over the world. As the pioneer in microwave ablation field, ECO is the first company to combine cooling circulation technology with microwave system in 2002, which has made a revolutionary breakthrough in the development of microwave ablation for tumor treatment. With more than 15 years'​ research and development in microwave, ECO's microwave ablation system has been widely used in a lot of hospitals both domestically and internationally. Besides microwave ablation system, ECO's product line also covers Varicose Veins Therapeutic Unit, Prostate Therapeutic Unit, Cool Plasma Electrosurgical Unit, Argon Electrosurgical Unit, Radiofrequency Therapeutic Unit, and Semi-conductor Laser Therapeutic System, etc. ECO has been dedicated itself to the whole human health. We are doing everything we can to serve our customers with the leading-edge technology.

www.ecomicrowave.com

He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)

www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected]

Instagram: @PhilipJames360

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

Facebook: @philipb07

YouTube: @Doctor Thyroid Twitter : @docthyroid

Thyroid ablation techniques have been used for decades in other parts of the world, and now it is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Two experts in this field, Dr. Suliburk and Dr. Grogan from Baylor St Luke's Medical Center in Houston, shared their knowledge and experience about this innovative treatment with interviewer Philip James.

Dr. Suliburk and Dr. Grogan are both full-time surgeons at Baylor College of Medicine, working at Baylor St Luke's Medical Center. They provide expert-level, high-volume care for patients with thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal diseases through their thyroid and parathyroid center. Their commitment to quality care is reflected in their development of patient-centered treatment plans that utilize innovative, minimally invasive therapies, whenever possible.

Thyroid ablation, specifically percutaneous thyroid RFA ablation or radiofrequency ablation, is a new and exciting technique used to treat thyroid diseases. Dr. Suliburk and Dr. Grogan offer this innovative treatment to patients who are properly selected for thyroid cancer defensive therapy, which is less than 1.5 centimeters, with definitive ultrasound imaging showing no involvement of any other lymph nodes, and is an isolated, solitary cancer, not multiple cancers throughout the thyroid.

When it comes to the role of an academic surgeon or a surgeon who works in a medical school, Dr. Suliburk and Dr. Grogan pointed out that it varies. They are both full-time clinical faculty who run a high-volume thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal practice. While they are surgeons, they advocate for saving the thyroid and offering every option available to preserve it. They are dedicated to bringing the state-of-the-art treatment options to their patients, whether that's surgical procedures or percutaneous image-guided procedures.

Dr. Suliburk and Dr. Grogan emphasized that they are in an era of shared decision-making when it comes to developing treatment plans for patients. They respect their patients' values and desires and offer customized treatment plans that include ablative, percutaneously ablative therapies for patients who are acceptable candidates. Traditionally, people have limited who is an acceptable candidate, but because they work at a state-of-the-art facility, they are always pushing the boundaries of where they can apply ablative therapies.

When it comes to the future of thyroid ablation, Dr. Suliburk and Dr. Grogan pointed out that insurance coverage is a significant issue. While they believe that insurance companies will eventually come around to covering thyroid ablation, it will likely take some time. In the meantime, they will continue to offer innovative treatment options to their patients and push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of thyroid ablation.

In conclusion, thyroid ablation is a new and exciting technique that offers patients innovative, minimally invasive treatment options. Dr. Suliburk and Dr. Grogan are at the forefront of this field, offering their patients the most advanced technical procedures and state-of-the-art treatment options. They advocate for shared decision-making and customized treatment plans that include ablative percutaneously ablative therapies for patients who are acceptable candidates. While insurance coverage remains a significant issue, they are confident that, eventually, insurance companies will recognize the value of thyroid ablation and cover it for their patients.

Dr. James Suliburk is a board-certified surgeon specializing in the treatment of tumors of the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal gland in Houston and the surrounding area (Bryan-College Station, Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Beaumont). As a fellowship-trained endocrine surgeon, he specializes in the care of patients with thyroid nodules, goiter, Graves' disease, thyroid cancer, hyperparathyroidism, adrenal masses, pheochromocytoma, Cushing's, and Conn's diseases. His advanced surgical expertise includes minimally invasive parathyroidectomy and thyroidectomy, traditional open thyroidectomy, central, selective and modified radical neck dissection, single incision laparoscopic adrenalectomy, and traditional laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

View Full Profile: Dr. James W. Suliburk

Dr. Raymon H. Grogan is a board certified surgeon specializing in Endocrine Surgery for the Houston and surrounding area (Bryan-College Station, Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Beaumont). He has helped co-author several national guidelines in the area of endocrine surgery and is a well-respected surgeon nationally internationally. In addition to having expertise in the traditional surgical approaches to thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and endocrine pancreas diseases Dr. Grogan is a pioneer of techniques for operating on the thyroid and parathyroid. He is one of only a few experts in the United States on Transoral Endocrine Surgery (TES), a novel approach to surgery for both thyroid and parathyroid disease that leaves no visible scar on the neck. Dr. Grogan was one of the first surgeons to perform this operation in the United States, and the first surgeon to perform this operation in Chicago, the Midwest, and Texas. He is also an expert in other forms of minimally invasive thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal surgery.

View Full Profile: Dr. Raymon H. Grogan

He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)

www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected]

Instagram: @PhilipJames360

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

Facebook: @philipb07

YouTube: @Doctor Thyroid Twitter : @docthyroid

Thyroid nodules are a common medical condition that affects many people, especially women. While most nodules are benign, they can cause discomfort or even grow large enough to obstruct the airway or esophagus. Ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to destroy thyroid nodules, has become an increasingly popular treatment option for patients.

In an interview with Dr. Ghazi, an endocrinologist and thyroid disease specialist from Egypt, the topic of discussion was comparing microwave ablation to radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating thyroid nodules. Dr. Ghazi has successfully completed over 100 cases of thermal ablation of both microwave and RFA, making him an expert in the field.

When comparing the two ablation methods, Dr. Ghazi notes that both microwave and RFA are effective in treating thyroid nodules. However, the most significant difference between the two methods is the ablation type. Microwave is more rapid and has a shorter application time, which makes it less exhausting for the patient. In contrast, RFA requires a longer application time, which can be more taxing for the patient.

Another important factor to consider when choosing between microwave and RFA is the location of the nodule. RFA has a heat sink effect, which can make it less effective for nodules located near large arteries or blood vessels. In contrast, microwave ablation is not affected by this issue, and the location of the nodule is less of a concern.

Additionally, patients who undergo microwave ablation do not need to lie on a bed or footbed, making the procedure more comfortable and convenient for them. Furthermore, microwave ablation can be used on patients with pacemakers, epilepsy, and even pregnant women, whereas RFA should be avoided in these cases.

However, it is worth noting that RFA has a safety advantage over microwave ablation. RFA has sensors and needles that can sense the impedance and temperature of the surrounding tissue. This makes it a more foolproof method for beginners who are new to ablation procedures. In contrast, microwave ablation lacks these sensors and requires more expertise to avoid carbonization of the surrounding tissue.

Finally, the size of the needle or antenna used in the procedure is also an important factor to consider. The antenna used in microwave ablation is larger and easier to see on ultrasound or biopsy, whereas the tip of the needle used in RFA is more easily visible by biopsy.

In conclusion, both microwave and RFA are effective methods for treating thyroid nodules. The decision to choose one over the other depends on the location of the nodule, the expertise of the doctor, and the safety concerns for the patient. It is essential to consult with a qualified physician to determine the best course of treatment for individual patients. Thanks to Dr. Ghazi for sharing his expertise on this important topic.

Dr. Hossam Ghazi, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Internal Medicine. Mansoura Faculty Egypt

Consultant of endocrinology and diabetes.

PG Diploma in Endocrinology-South Wales University-UK

PG Diploma in Diabetes-Cardiff University-UK

He is interested in RFA, Laser & Microwave ablation for benign thyroid nodules and parathyroid adenoma

https://www.rfamd.com/hossam-ghazi/

ABOUT Philip James

He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)

www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected]

Instagram: @PhilipJames360

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

Facebook: @philipb07

YouTube: @Doctor Thyroid Twitter : @docthyroid

Are insurance companies obstructing the wide adoption of RFA? with Dr. Jung Hwan Baek from South Korea

Thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment option for thyroid nodules that aims to remove the nodule while preserving the thyroid gland. This procedure has gained popularity in South Korea and other countries as an alternative to thyroidectomy, a surgery that involves removing the entire thyroid gland. However, the adoption of RFA has been slow in the United States due to insurance companies not covering the procedure, making it too costly for many patients.

Dr. Jung Hwan Baek, a specialist in thyroid RFA, believes that the procedure is important for preserving thyroid function and improving the quality of life for patients. In contrast to thyroidectomy, which requires patients to take lifelong hormone replacement medication, RFA allows patients to maintain natural thyroid hormone production.

The cost of thyroid RFA is a significant barrier to its adoption in the United States. While the procedure is cheaper in South Korea and other countries, insurance coverage is a major factor in the affordability of treatment for patients. Insurance companies need to recognize the value of RFA and begin covering the procedure in order for it to become more widely available to patients.

Overall, thyroid RFA is a promising treatment option that has the potential to improve the lives of many thyroid nodule patients. It is important for insurance companies to acknowledge the benefits of this procedure and work towards making it more widely accessible to patients.

MORE INFO www.rfamd.com

About Dr. Jung Hwan Baek

Professor Baek, Jung Hwan is a radiologist and professor at University of Ulsan College of Medicine, who is dedicated in thyroid & head/neck imaging and intervention. He has been working in the field for 24 years. As the chief of Research Affair in Asan Medical Center, he has considerable experience with clinical trials and interventions of thyroid and neck diseases. He also has been serving on multiple national and international committees and a President of Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology.

He has established advanced diagnostic and interventional techniques including core needle biopsy, ethanol ablation (EA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for thyroid and neck diseases. His research interests include thyroid and neck tumor imaging/intervention.

He has published over 200 scientific papers and 7 book chapters. He has longstanding research relationships with many international collaborators who are in charge of diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases. He has conducted training program of thyroid including thyroid imaging, biopsy and non-surgical treatment (EA and RFA) at Asan Medical Center (Seoul, Korea), Asia, Europe and USA. Recently, he developed thyroid CAD system (S-Detect for thyroid) using an artificial intelligence.

www.rfamd.com/jung-hwan-baek

ABOUT Philip James

He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)

www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected]

Instagram : @PhilipJames360

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

Facebook : @philipb07

YouTube : @Doctor Thyroid Twitter : @docthyroid

Find RFA doctors on the premier global directory: www.rfamd.com

RFA is a relatively safe procedure; ultrasound and protecting the laryngeal nerve is key. Protecting the nerves during RFA and thyroid surgery with Dr. Julia Noel from Stanford Health Care. Hosted by Philip James. Supported by www.rfamd.com.

🔹🔹🔹 Find an RFA doctor 🔹🔹🔹 WWW.RFAMD.COM During this interview, the following topics are discussed: → Stanford University prioritizes anatomic structures, ultrasound, and how to best protect the laryngeal nerve

→ Pre-procedure ultrasound is instrumental in minimizing risk

→ Risk to the laryngeal nerve is minimal during RFA

→ Where to deliver heat is guided by ultrasound

→ If unintended consequences occurs during RFA, they are usually reversible

→ Most risk is affecting a patient's voice

→ Technique and space — away from structures — can be controlled with extra fluid

→ Dr. Noel has conducted 80+ RFA procedures at Stanford University

→ What should every practitioner know in regard to protecting the nerves?

→ Commitment to ultrasound anatomy is critical

→ Ultrasound guided procedures

→ The Stanford RFA team for conducting a procedure is one assistant MD or Fellow, medical assistant laying out equipment and vital signs

→ Patient due diligence when selecting an RFA doctor is key: it should include vetting providers for their experience with RFA → Ask if the doctor has done RFA procedures, what's the plan for follow up?

→ With RFA, are fewer thyroidectomies occurring?With RFA in clinic, patients now have more treatment options → "No hammers looking for nails"

→ Who is the ideal candidate for RFA?

→ Solitary, large, benign thyroid nodule is the ideal candidate → Cost is between $5000 – $10,000

→ Reduction in thyroid nodule size is up to 80%

→ RFA can be used for malignant nodules

→ Why did it take so long for the U.S. to adopt RFA?

FDA processes are laborious and time consuming

→ Is RFA painful? Generally "no"

→ RFA fills a void in treatment options for thyroid nodule

→ Preservation of thyroid function is key — the thyroid is preserved

→ Does insurance cover RFA treatment?

→ Sometimes the insurance company will cover the procedure through an appeal process

About Dr. Julia Noel ✅ TWITTER @JuliaNoelMD

✅ WEBSITE https://profiles.stanford.edu/julia-noel

✅ WEBSITE https://rfamd.com/julia-noel/

✅ Grand Rounds Video on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeiOQ…

🔹🔹🔹

✅ ABOUT Philip James I shared my story with many of you on my podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, my laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule.

Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help me speak. The bad result of thyroid surgery dampened my quality of life → and left me wondering, what exactly happened → during what should be a low-risk surgery?

My attempts to follow up with UCLA and the surgeon were ignored. So, I turned to other doctors for answers — this was the beginning of the podcast: "Doctor Thyroid with Philip James" 100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them access to information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word I use to describe my work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using my pain and hardship to help others.

When not producing podcast episodes or co-hosting live Q&As for patients with top doctors, I lead the creative team at Philip James Media — we are a marketing agency dedicated to digital communications — serving the sectors of healthcare, payments, and Greentech.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries: www.doctiroides.com (Spanish) www.docthyroid.com (English)

Please email your requests to [email protected] 🔹🔹🔹

✅ Instagram : @PhilipJamesMedia

✅ LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

✅ Facebook : @docthyroid

✅ YouTube : @Doctor Thyroid

✅ Twitter : @docthyroid

✅ WEBSITE : philipjames.co

Looking for a radiofrequency ablation doctor? 🔹www.rfamd.com🔹 Dr. Leonardo Rangel and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Malignant Thyroid Nodules. During this episode the following topics are discussed:

✅we are treating malignant nodules with radiofrequency ablation therapy ✅We are using radiofrequency ablation therapy since 2006 ✅it is something that we are really experiencing is the treatment of those malignant thyroid nodules with radiofrequency ablation ✅avoid the risk of thyroidectomy ✅surgeons must give patients all treatment options; including no surgery ✅there are some nodules malignant nodules, they are not amenable for radiofrequency due to position, size, or something like this ✅patient consultations take longer because there are more treatment options to consider ✅ the problem of taking the levothyroxine

✅ About Dr. Leonardo Rangel Staff da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro Membro da Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço Membro da Sociedade Americana de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço Membro da Sociedade Latinoamericana de Tireoidologia

✅Facebook Rangel MD – Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço @cabecaepescoco ✅Website https://www.rfamd.com/leonardo-rangel/

✅ ABOUT RFA MD A guide for locating doctors of radiofrequency ablation. Find radiofrequency ablation doctors from across the world.

WWW.RFAMD.COM Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter ✅ ABOUT Philip James He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com

In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak.

100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics.

The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others.

The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)🔹 www.docthyroid.com (English)🔹

✅Please email your requests to [email protected]

✅ Instagram : @PhilipJames360

✅ LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

✅ Facebook : @docthyroid

✅ YouTube : @Doctor Thyroid

✅ Twitter : @docthyroid

Looking for a radiofrequency ablation doctor? 🔹www.rfamd.com🔹 🛑 REMOVE Thyroid Nodules 🛑 NO SURGERY During this podcast, the following topics are discussed: ✅advocate for patients to be as well informed as possible and consider all treatment options for thyroid problems, including avoiding surgery whenever possible and radiofrequency ablation.

✅ five thousand dollars out of pocket and save your thyroid with radiofrequency ablation or thyroidectomy and maybe nothing out of pocket with an insurance paid thyroidectomy?

✅if there are isn't if there are options available if there is an option available to avoid surgery and it gives you an equivalent outcome or maybe even better outcome why wouldn't you choose radiofrequency ablation?

✅with radiofrequency ablation now it's exciting because for thyroid nodules they can be removed without doing surgery

✅before radiofrequency ablation all you had was surgery really and obviously with surgery we talked about the possible risks of surgery and of course probably more concerning sometimes to a lot of people is if you take out half of the thyroid even if you're functioning normally with thyroid your thyroid levels you're having normal thyroid function 25% of those patients will still need thyroid hormone

✅the beauty of radiofrequency ablation is that first of all in most circumstances it's no general anesthesia you can do it in the office much like when you go to your dentist and maybe you're getting a cavity filled you get novocaine or lidocaine to numb up the neck area and then under guidance with an ultrasound you take a needle

✅the beauty of that is that the overwhelming majority of times radiofrequency ablation does not change your thyroid function so think about it we're talking about an invasive procedure surgery general anesthesia complication risk

✅ they have a thyroid problem goiter or a nodule that can be treated by radiofrequency ablation that they seriously consider radiofrequency ablation in preserving the thyroid as a treatment option versus a surgery or a thyroidectomy

✅radiofrequency ablation is very effective and more effective than surgery in fact in ablating and controlling papillary micro-cancer without any real complications

✅radiofrequency ablation seems to be a little more focused and maybe a little bit more able to control that destructive process in that area so you can protect those important structures

✅ About Dr. Ralph Tufano Dr. Ralph P. Tufano is the Director of the Division of Head and Neck Endocrine Surgery and conducts thyroid and parathyroid surgery with a focus on optimizing outcomes. He is a recognized world authority on the management of thyroid cancer, thyroid nodules, benign thyroid diseases and parathyroid disease. He has expertise in the management of thyroid cancer nodal metastases, advanced and invasive thyroid cancers as well as recurrent thyroid cancers. His work in molecular markers, improving surgical outcomes, nerve monitoring and exploring novel treatment techniques for thyroid and parathyroid diseases has helped the medical field tailor and personalize treatment for patients with these conditions. Dr. Tufano has performed every type of minimally invasive endoscopic and robotic thyroid and parathyroid surgery over the years and was director of the initial team that developed the now internationally accepted approach for the scarless transoral thyroidectomy and parathyroid surgery.

WEBSITE www.rfamd.com/doctors/dr-ralph-tufano/

✅ ABOUT RFA MD A guide for locating doctors of radiofrequency ablation. Find radiofrequency ablation doctors from across the world.

WWW.RFAMD.COM Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter ✅ ABOUT Philip James He is the host of the popular podcast: Doctor Thyroid www.docthyroid.com 🔹 In 2013, his laryngeal nerve was severed, shoulder nerve damaged, parathyroids ruined, and residual cancer left behind — all for a 1 cm thyroid nodule. Later, a vocal cord implant was inserted to help him speak. 🔹 100+ episodes later, the Doctor Thyroid podcast is popular amongst patients; allowing them to access information from top doctors, without being limited by geography or economics. 🔹 The word he uses to describe his work as patient advocate is, 'tonglen'. Or, using his pain and hardship to help others. 🔹 The Doctor Thyroid podcast is available in Spanish and English – and listened to in over 30 countries:

www.doctiroides.com (Spanish)🔹 www.docthyroid.com (English)🔹

✅Please email your requests to [email protected]

✅ Instagram : @PhilipJames360

✅ LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/philip-james/

✅ Facebook : @philipb07

✅ YouTube : @Doctor Thyroid

✅ Twitter : @docthyroid