Radiofrequency Ablation as a Palliative Treatment for Advanced Primary Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Ineligible for Surgery

ocally advanced-primary papillary thyroid carcinoma (LA-pPTC) often requires wide en bloc resection of structures including the trachea, esophagus, or larynx. 1 However, such extensive surgeries can lead to severe functional impairments, significantly reducing quality of life.When complete resection is unfeasible, alternative treatments like external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and systemic therapy may be used, though their efficacy in locoregional control is limited and possibly associated with significant toxicities. 2 Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been widely used for benign thyroid nodules and recurrent thyroid cancer, demonstrating its high efficacy. 3However, its role as a first-line treatment for LA-pPTC remains unclear.Given the need for effective, minimally invasive alternatives for inoperable cases, RFA may offer a promising option for tumor control while preserving native functions.This case report describes RFA in a patient with inoperable LA-pPTC, evaluating its potential benefits and feasibility as a first-line palliative intervention.