Thyroid nodules are typically benign and asymptomatic. However, occasionally nodules can cause compression of surrounding structures and changes in thyroid function. In such cases treatment is necessary. Thermoablation, a minimally invasive procedure, is one treatment option. Various forms of thermoablation typically use high temperatures to dissolve tissue and reduce nodule size. We investigated the safety and efficacy of thermoablation compared to conventional methods such as surgery or radioiodine therapy (ingestion of a radioactive capsule).

The systematic review included four randomised controlled trials (n=648) and five non-randomised studies of interventions (propensity-score matching, n=1,605). The evidence suggests that fewer adverse events occur after thermoablation compared to surgery. However, the current evidence is insufficient to prove that thermoablation is more effective than conventional methods. Overall, the certainty of evidence concerning efficacy and safety was rated very low. Ongoing studies should be awaited, as they may provide significant evidence.