Finding a lump in the neck can certainly cause anxiety. Many people immediately assume it's cancer or believe the only way to treat it is through surgery. However, not all neck lumps are dangerous, and not all thyroid nodules require surgery.
With the advancement of medical technology, a minimally invasive therapy option is now available for certain cases: Microwave Ablation (MWA) . This therapy can be an alternative for treating thyroid nodules without major incisions, after evaluation by a specialist.
What Are Thyroid Nodules?
Thyroid nodules are lumps that grow on the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. This gland produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolism.
Most thyroid nodules are benign and cause no symptoms. However, in some people, nodules can enlarge and cause:
- The lump in the neck is becoming more visible.
- A feeling of tightness or discomfort in the neck.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Hoarse voice.
- A feeling of pressure in the neck, especially when lying down.
Because the symptoms can resemble other conditions, a doctor's examination is essential to determine the type and cause of the nodule.
What is Microwave Ablation (MWA)?
Microwave Ablation (MWA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses microwave energy to generate heat and destroy thyroid nodule tissue in a targeted manner.
In this procedure, the doctor inserts a special needle into the nodule using ultrasound guidance. The resulting heat gradually shrinks the nodule tissue, while preserving the surrounding healthy thyroid tissue.
Because it does not require large incisions, this procedure generally provides more comfort for patients than conventional surgery in eligible cases.
Who Can Undergo MWA?
MWA is not intended for all patients with thyroid nodules .
The doctor will perform a thorough examination, including a medical interview, physical examination, thyroid ultrasound, and if necessary a biopsy (FNAB), to confirm the characteristics of the nodule.
MWA may be an option for patients with:
- Benign thyroid nodules that have been confirmed through examination.
- Nodules that continue to grow.
- Complaints such as difficulty swallowing, feeling pressured, or lumps that interfere with appearance.
- Certain conditions may cause patients to wish to avoid surgery, as long as it is in accordance with medical considerations.
Each treatment decision will be tailored to the size, location, type of nodule, and the patient's overall health condition.
What are the advantages of MWA?
Compared to surgical procedures in appropriate cases, MWA has several advantages, including:
- Minimally invasive procedure without large incisions.
- It is done with ultrasound guidance so it is more precise.
- The action time is relatively short.
- The recovery period is generally faster.
- The scars are very minimal.
- The risk of disruption to healthy tissue around the nodule can be minimized with proper technique.
However, every medical procedure still has benefits and risks which will be explained by the doctor before the procedure is carried out.
Do Thyroid Nodules Always Need Treatment?
No.
Many small, asymptomatic thyroid nodules require only regular monitoring. Treatment is only considered if the nodule enlarges, causes symptoms, interferes with quality of life, or shows signs that require further therapy.
Therefore, regular check-ups are very important so that changes in the nodules can be detected early.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Get checked immediately if you experience:
- Lump on the front of the neck.
- The lump is getting bigger.
- Difficulty swallowing or feeling of obstruction.
- Hoarseness without an obvious cause.
- Feeling of pressure in the neck.
- The ultrasound results showed a thyroid nodule and wanted to know the treatment options.
The doctor will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether the nodule is adequately monitored, requires MWA therapy, or requires other, more appropriate treatment.
Consult a specialist immediately
Thyroid nodules don't always require surgery. Thanks to advances in medical technology, Microwave Ablation (MWA) has become a minimally invasive treatment option that can be considered for patients with certain thyroid nodules.
However, not all nodules can be treated with MWA. Treatment should be based on a thorough examination by a specialist. If you find a lump in your neck or have been diagnosed with a thyroid nodule, don't hesitate to consult a doctor. Early, appropriate treatment can help resolve symptoms while maintaining optimal thyroid gland function.
This article was written by Dr. Amir Juliansyah, Sp.B, Subsp. Onk(K) (Surgery Specialist – Surgical Subspecialist, Oncology Consultant, EMC Pekayon Hospital).