Advances in nonsurgical treatment of benign thyroid nodules.

Abstract

Ethanol ablation has traditionally been used for treatment of cystic thyroid

nodules. Laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation were introduced later and

used for treatment of solid thyroid nodules. However, how to select the best

treatment modality among the different techniques has, so far, not been

determined and causes confusion in clinical practice. Therefore, the necessity

for a proper guideline regarding the choice of the preferable treatment modality

has been suggested as the use of nonsurgical treatment for benign thyroid nodules

has been increasing. This article provides an up-to-date review of nonsurgical

treatment of benign thyroid nodules focusing on how to select the best treatment

modality according to the composition of thyroid nodules based on the clinical

evidence.