Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Ethanol Ablation in Cystic and Predominantly Cystic Thyroid Nodules

Abstract Background thyroid cystic and predominantly cystic nodules are frequent among the general population. Some can increase in size with time and cause pressure and cosmetic symptoms. Their standard line of treatment is usually simple aspiration which was found to have high recurrence rate. Recurrent cystic thyroid nodules were considered for surgical removal which had many serious adverse effects. Aim of the Work to evaluate the efficacy, and safety of ultrasound guided percutaneous ethanol injection in cystic and predominantly cystic thyroid nodules in patients referred to Interventional Radiology Unit; Ain Shams University Hospitals. Patients and Methods The study was conducted at the Interventional Radiology Unit; Radiology Department, Ain Shams University Hospitals and conducted 20 patients with cystic thyroid nodules. Results The present study concludes that EA should be considered as the first option for the treatment of pure cysts and predominantly cystic nodules that are not treated with simple aspiration. EA of thyroid cysts having solid component has limited therapeutic effect and may require multiple sessions. Unlike surgery, EA is a safe procedure that is easy to repeat, is inexpensive, can be performed easily on an outpatient basis, and has only transient side effects. Conclusion EA should be considered as the first option for the treatment of benign cystic thyroid nodules, especially pure cystic nodules that are not treated with simple aspiration. EA of thyroid cysts having solid component has limited therapeutic effect and may require multiple sessions. Unlike surgery, EA is a safe procedure that is easy to repeat, is inexpensive, can be performed easily on an outpatient basis, and has only transient side effects.