Frequently Asked Questions
Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers
Is the procedure painful?
Because local anesthesia is administered before the procedure, very few patients experience any pain at all. During the procedure, it’s normal to feel pushing and pressure in the neck, but the procedure generally does not cause pain. Patients occasionally feel heat or discomfort in the neck that may radiate to the ear or jaws. Following your procedure, you will be given ice packs and pain medication if needed. For more questions related to the procedure, please consult directly with your doctor.
How many treatments are necessary?
One procedure will sufficiently decrease the size of the nodules and improve symptoms, but if the treated nodules are close to vocal cord nerves or nodules are very large, additional procedures maybe necessary to decrease the nodule significantly. The untreated areas of nodules may impede the improvement of thyroid function so that complete ablation may be required, and more than one procedure may be needed.
Will the procedure leave a scar?
No. The procedure is delivered using a thin needle. There may be small markings on your neck from the needle for 1-2 days following the procedure, but it will not leave any visible scarring.
How effective is the procedure?
For benign nodules, clinical trials have shown an average radiofrequency ablation of benign cold nodules showed volume reductions of 32.7-58.2% at 1 month and 50.7-84.8% at 6 months while reducing symptoms and cosmetic problems.
RFA is effective over a four-year period in a long-term follow-up study, with nodules consistently decreasing by 93.5%.
How do I pay for this?
Most medical insurance plans currently do not pay for these new non-invasive alternatives to surgery.
We will make best efforts to work with you to help you secure insurance reimbursement, but the procedure is currently paid for in advance with cash. Payment plans can be arranged.
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