Safety and efficacy of microwave ablation for benign thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To summarize the published literature on microwave ablation (MWA) for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinomas, and to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of MWA as a novel treatment strategy.

METHODS

Two independent authors carried out the literature search using four databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science. The meta-analysis included prospective and retrospective data that compared pre-treatment values to post-treatment outcomes.

RESULTS

From the 33 original articles, seven studies met the inclusion criteria for this meta-analysis. Of these, five were retrospective studies, two were prospective trials, one was controlled study, and one was a multi-center study. The results showed significant improvements in nodule volume, clinical symptom scores, and beauty scores between the baseline and final follow-up visits. In all of the studies, the most common adverse effects were hematomas, unbearable pain, and transient or permanent voice change in 3.8%, 2.2%, and 4.6% of patients, respectively. None of these incidents resulted in hospitalization or death.

CONCLUSIONS

MWA is effective and safe for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinomas. However, future studies should compare the efficacy of MWA, RFA, and surgical intervention.