Application value of moving-shot technique in the treatment of microwave ablation for thyroid nodules

Objective To assess the application value of moving-shot technique in the treatment of ultrasound-guided microwave ablation (MWA) for thyroid lesions. Methods A total of 61 patients (mean age, 48.1±11.4 years) with 72 benign thyroid nodules (mean diameter, 3.0±1.4 cm) were treated with MWA in our department from November 2010 to December 2013. Nodules were divided into fxed-needle technique group (group F, n=39) and moving-shot technique group (group M, n=33). The difference of ablation parameters, ablation range and volume-reduction ratio (VRR) of two groups were compared. Results Exposure time in group Mwere shorter than that in group F (P< 0.01). Complete ablation rate in group Mwere higher than that in group F (P=0.044). During the follow-up period ranging from 1 to 12 months, effect of group Mwere better than group Fwith higher mean VRR in every section of follow-up period. The difference in the section of '3-6 months' was statistically signifcant (P=0.041). Conclusion Moving-shot technique is not only a method to improve the effciency of MWA, but also an easy way to make more appropriate shape for complete ablation, which will become more suitable for ultrasound-guided MWA therapy in thyroid nodules.