Ultrasound-Guided Microwave Ablation for Benign Thyroid Nodules in Older Adults: Comparative Analysis of Clinical Outcomes and Safety
Diagnostics, cilt.16, sa.17, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 16 Sayı: 17
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.3390/diagnostics16172866
- Dergi Adı: Diagnostics
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, EMBASE, Directory of Open Access Journals, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: microwave ablation, minimally invasive treatment, older adults, thyroid nodules, volume reduction rate
- Van Yüzüncü Yıl Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Background: The management of benign thyroid nodules causing compressive symptoms, cosmetic concerns, or rapid growth in older adults is challenging because of multimorbidity and increased surgical risk. Ultrasound-guided microwave ablation (MWA) is a minimally invasive treatment option; however, data regarding its efficacy and safety in older patients remain limited. This study compared clinical outcomes of MWA between older and younger adults with benign thyroid nodules. Methods: This retrospective comparative study included 98 patients with benign thyroid nodules causing compressive symptoms, cosmetic concerns, or rapid growth (defined as more than a twofold increase in volume within 6 months) who underwent ultrasound-guided MWA. Patients were divided into older adults (≥60 years, n = 33) and younger adults (18–59 years, n = 65). Nodule volume, volume reduction rate (VRR), symptom and cosmetic scores, thyroid function, and procedure-related complications were evaluated at baseline and 3- and 6-month follow-up. Comorbidity burden was assessed using the age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (aCCI). Results: MWA significantly reduced nodule volume in both groups. At 6 months, median VRR was comparable between older and younger patients (66.1% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.50). Symptom and cosmetic scores significantly improved in both groups (for both groups p < 0.001), while thyroid function remained stable. Despite higher comorbidity burden among older patients, treatment outcomes were similar between groups. No major complications occurred; transient hoarseness developed in two younger patients and resolved during follow-up. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided MWA appears to be an effective and safe minimally invasive treatment for benign thyroid nodules in older adults. Comparable outcomes between older and younger patients suggest that age and comorbidity burden should be considered in clinical decision-making rather than as absolute limitations to treatment.