Comparing microwave and radiofrequency ablation for treating benign thyroid nodules
Official title: Microwave Ablation Versus Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Moderate-sized Benign Thyroid Nodules, a Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT06426563 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether microwave or radiofrequency ablation is better for treating moderate-sized benign thyroid nodules without the need for surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong, Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 15, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | September 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06426563 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with solid benign thyroid nodules measuring at least 2 cm in diameter.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with cytologically indeterminate nodules or those with medical conditions that make them unfit for thermal ablation will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of microwave ablation (MWA) versus radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in treating moderate-sized benign thyroid nodules. The study aims to provide an alternative to traditional thyroidectomy, which carries risks such as nerve injury and the need for hormone replacement. Participants will undergo one of the two ablation techniques, which are minimally invasive procedures guided by ultrasound. The trial focuses on patients with solid nodules that meet specific size and benign criteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could offer a safer, less invasive treatment option for patients with benign thyroid nodules.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that both RFA and MWA are effective for treating benign thyroid nodules, indicating that this approach is supported by existing evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Adult patients \>/=18 years of age 2. Nodule maximal diameter ≥2cm and nodule volume \<20ml 3. Nodule being predominantly solid (≥80% solid) 4. Confirmed benign nature of nodules, either by : two benign fine needle biopsies, with the most recent biopsy performed within 1 year of enrollment in study or one benign fine needle biopsy and low suspicion characteristics on ultrasound 5. Both functional and non-functional nodules are eligible. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Cytologically indeterminate nodules 2. Nodules with substernal extension or posterior extension that cannot be viewed sufficiently with ultrasound 3. current pregnancy or cardiac arrhythmias; presence of pacemaker or any medical condition that renders patient unfit for thermal ablation
Where it's running
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Queen Mary Hospital
Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Man Him, Matrix Fung, MBBS
- Email: mmhfung@hku.hk
- Phone: +852-22554232
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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This study is testing different ways to diagnose and treat thyroid problems, like hypothyroidism and thyroid cancer, to see which methods work best for patients.
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Ultrasound-guided thermal ablation for benign thyroid nodules
This study tests whether a new ultrasound-guided heat treatment can safely shrink benign thyroid nodules and improve patients' experiences over a year.
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.