Comparing microwave and radiofrequency ablation for treating benign thyroid nodules

Microwave Ablation Versus Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Moderate-sized Benign Thyroid Nodules, a Randomized Controlled Trial

NA · The University of Hong Kong · NCT06426563

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

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong (other)
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT06426563 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with solid benign thyroid nodules measuring at least 2 cm in diameter.

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.

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Thyroid Nodule \, Ablation Therapy, Ablation therapy, Thyroid nodule, benign, RFA, MWA

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.