10 Years' Follow-up Results of Ultrasound-guided Radiofrequency Ablation Versus Surgery for Low-risk Papillary Thyroid Micro-carcinoma

10 Years' Follow-up Results of Ultrasound-guided Radiofrequency Ablation Versus Surgery for Low-risk Papillary Thyroid Micro-carcinoma

Papillary thyroid micro-carcinoma (PTMC) generally demonstrates favorable prognosis. However, the potential risk of disease progression requires careful therapeutic consideration. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has garnered attention as a minimally invasive treatment option for patients with PTMC who choose to decline both surgical resection (SR) and active surveillance. However, comprehensive comparative studies evaluating RFA versus surgery regarding long-term oncological efficacy, quality-of-life, and cost-effectiveness in multicenter cohorts remain warranted. To compare the oncological outcomes, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness between RFA and SR for low-risk PTMC over 10 years' follow-up.

Inclusion Criteria:

(a) PTC confirmed at FNA or CNB, with a maximum diameter of 1 cm; (b) no clinical or imaging evidence of extra-thyroidal extension (41-42) and no evidence of metastasis at preoperative ultrasonography (US) or neck computed tomography (CT), indicating clinical preoperative T1aN0M0; (c) no history of neck irradiation; (d) no prior thyroid surgery; (e) follow-up of ≥ 120 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

(a) severe coagulation disorder or organ failure, (b) evidence of an aggressive sub-type of PTC on biopsy, and (c) incomplete data.