Radiofrequency Ablation for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma

RFA Treatment for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma Cohort

Columbia University · NCT05189821

This study tests if a less invasive treatment called Radiofrequency Ablation can safely help people with small thyroid cancers who can’t or don’t want to have surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorColumbia University (other)
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT05189821 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study evaluates the efficacy and safety of Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) as a treatment for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma (PTMC) in patients who have opted for this procedure based on their physician's recommendation. The study aims to collect data on patients who are either unwilling to undergo surgery or are not suitable surgical candidates. By focusing on less invasive treatment options, the study addresses the growing need for alternative approaches to managing indolent thyroid cancers. Participants will provide access to their medical data to assess the outcomes of RFA.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with biopsy-proven papillary thyroid microcarcinoma measuring 1.5 cm or larger who either refuse surgery or are not good surgical candidates.

Not a fit: Patients with cardiac arrhythmias or those who are pregnant will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a less invasive treatment option for patients with low-risk thyroid cancer, reducing the need for surgery and its associated complications.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar less invasive approaches for treating thyroid cancers, indicating potential for success in this study.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients (\>/= 18 years)
* Biopsy proven papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (\>/= 1.5cm in greatest diameter, PTMC)
* Either refuse surgery or are not good surgical candidates

Exclusion Criteria:

* Cardiac arrhythmia
* Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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: Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma, Radiofrequency Ablation

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.