Stylized digital illustration comparing microwave and radiofrequency signals on a thyroid gland.

Thyroid Nodules: Is Microwave Ablation the Future?

Elliot Brynn in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"A new study compares microwave ablation (MWA) to radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating benign thyroid nodules, revealing key differences that could change how we approach thyroid health."

Thyroid nodules are common, and while most are benign, they can cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns, leading many to seek minimally invasive treatments. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been a popular choice, but newer methods like microwave ablation (MWA) are emerging as promising alternatives.

A recent study published in the International Journal of Hyperthermia dives into a detailed comparison between MWA and bipolar RFA, focusing on how they differ in energy transmission, application duration, and the number of shots required. The goal? To see if MWA offers any tangible advantages over RFA in treating benign thyroid nodules.

This article breaks down the study's findings, explaining the key differences between these two ablation techniques and what they mean for people seeking effective and less invasive options for managing thyroid nodules. Whether you're exploring treatment options or simply curious about the latest advancements in thyroid health, this information will provide a clearer picture of what MWA can offer.

MWA vs. RFA: Key Differences in Treating Thyroid Nodules

Stylized digital illustration comparing microwave and radiofrequency signals on a thyroid gland.

The study, led by Christian Vorländer and colleagues, involved 60 patients with 65 thyroid nodules, comparing microwave ablation (MWA) to radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Researchers meticulously analyzed procedural characteristics, including treatment time, the number of energy bursts (shots), and total energy delivered, alongside clinical outcomes like complication rates and nodule volume reduction after three months.

Here's a breakdown of what the research revealed:

Energy Transmission: Both MWA and RFA delivered comparable amounts of energy to the thyroid nodules. The energy transmitted per milliliter of nodule tissue was also similar between the two methods.
Procedure Time & Power: No significant differences were found in the overall duration of the ablation procedure or the power used during treatment.
Number of Shots: MWA required significantly fewer 'shots' or applications compared to RFA to treat the entire nodule. This could translate to reduced discomfort and potentially shorter procedure times.
Volume Reduction: Both MWA and RFA led to a significant reduction in nodule volume after three months, with no statistical difference between the two.
Complications: Both treatments were generally well-tolerated. One patient in the MWA group experienced a transient Horner's syndrome, which resolved without further intervention. No major complications like nodule rupture or nerve injuries were reported.

These findings suggest that while both MWA and RFA are effective in reducing thyroid nodule volume, MWA's ability to achieve similar results with fewer applications could be a significant advantage in patient comfort and procedural efficiency.

The Future of Thyroid Nodule Treatment

This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of minimally invasive techniques like MWA and RFA for managing benign thyroid nodules. The fact that MWA can achieve comparable results to RFA with fewer applications makes it an attractive option for both patients and clinicians.

However, it's important to note that this study had some limitations, including a relatively short follow-up period. Longer-term studies are needed to assess the durability of these treatments and to identify any potential long-term complications.

As technology evolves, MWA may become an increasingly popular choice for treating benign thyroid nodules. Its potential for reduced discomfort and efficient treatment, combined with its effectiveness in reducing nodule size, positions it as a promising alternative to traditional methods. Future research will undoubtedly refine our understanding of its benefits and optimal applications.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1080/02656736.2018.1489984, Alternate LINK

Title: Comparison Between Microwave Ablation And Bipolar Radiofrequency Ablation In Benign Thyroid Nodules: Differences In Energy Transmission, Duration Of Application And Applied Shots

Subject: Cancer Research

Journal: International Journal of Hyperthermia

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Authors: Christian Vorländer, Konstantin David Kohlhase, Yücel Korkusuz, Christian Erbelding, Wolfgang Luboldt, Ilknur Baser, Hüdayi Korkusuz

Published: 2018-10-09

Everything You Need To Know

What are Microwave ablation (MWA) and Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and how do they work?

Microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are both minimally invasive techniques used to treat benign thyroid nodules. These methods work by using different forms of energy to heat and destroy the nodule tissue. The main difference lies in the energy source; MWA uses microwave energy, while RFA uses radiofrequency energy. Both aim to reduce the size and impact of thyroid nodules, addressing concerns such as discomfort or cosmetic issues.

Why is it important to compare Microwave ablation (MWA) and Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating thyroid nodules?

The significance of comparing Microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) lies in their potential to improve patient care in thyroid health management. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been a popular choice. A recent study published in the *International Journal of Hyperthermia* compares Microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), examining procedural characteristics such as treatment time, the number of shots, and total energy delivered, along with clinical outcomes such as complication rates and nodule volume reduction. The findings help determine which technique is more efficient and potentially less invasive, which could translate to reduced discomfort, shorter procedure times, and better overall outcomes for those with benign thyroid nodules.

What are the main differences between Microwave ablation (MWA) and Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in terms of the procedure itself?

Microwave ablation (MWA) uses microwave energy, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses radiofrequency energy to treat thyroid nodules. While both methods deliver comparable energy to the nodule tissue, the recent study found that Microwave ablation (MWA) required significantly fewer 'shots' or applications compared to Radiofrequency ablation (RFA). This difference in the number of applications is a key factor, potentially leading to reduced discomfort and shorter procedure times for patients undergoing Microwave ablation (MWA).

What are the implications of Microwave ablation (MWA) potentially requiring fewer applications compared to Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?

The implications of Microwave ablation (MWA) potentially requiring fewer applications than Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are significant. If Microwave ablation (MWA) achieves similar outcomes with fewer energy bursts or shots, this could mean shorter procedures and less discomfort for patients. This can improve the patient experience and potentially lead to a quicker recovery. This advancement supports the use of minimally invasive techniques for managing benign thyroid nodules.

What were the key findings of the study comparing Microwave ablation (MWA) and Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?

The key findings of the study indicate that both Microwave ablation (MWA) and Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are effective in reducing the volume of thyroid nodules. However, the study highlighted that Microwave ablation (MWA) might require fewer energy applications (shots) compared to Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to achieve comparable results. This could translate to benefits for patients in terms of reduced discomfort and procedure duration. While both methods are generally well-tolerated, the study's findings suggest that Microwave ablation (MWA) could be a more efficient option. The future of thyroid nodule treatment is leaning towards minimally invasive techniques like Microwave ablation (MWA) and Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which are effective ways to manage benign thyroid nodules.