Thyroid lumps are common growths in the thyroid gland. While most are benign (non-cancerous), they can sometimes cause problems. These nodules may cause visible swelling in the neck that raises cosmetic concerns or press against the trachea, making it difficult to breathe or swallow. In some cases, they may produce excess thyroid hormones, resulting in hyperthyroidism and its related symptoms.
While surgery has been the standard treatment approach, several effective non-surgical options are now available in Singapore to help reduce the size of thyroid lumps and relieve symptoms. These treatments often involve less downtime and fewer risks compared to traditional surgery.
What Are Thyroid Lumps?
Thyroid lumps, also known as thyroid nodules, are abnormal growths that form within the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. They can be solid or fluid-filled and vary in size. In most cases, these lumps are not cancerous and often do not cause any symptoms.
A thyroid lump in the neck is a frequent occurrence, particularly among women and older individuals. Typically, these nodules are discovered incidentally during a routine check-up or an imaging test for another condition.
When Is Non-Surgical Treatment Recommended?
Surgery (hemithyroidectomy) is a standard treatment for large, suspicious or malignant thyroid nodules, but it is not always necessary for benign lumps. In fact, many patients prefer to avoid surgery to avoid the risks associated with general anaesthesia, potential complications and visible scarring.
Non-surgical treatment for thyroid lumps may be a suitable option for individuals with:
- Benign nodules confirmed through biopsy
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- A feeling of pressure in the neck
- A visible lump that causes cosmetic concerns
- Risks associated with surgery or anaesthesia due to age or health conditions
What Are Non-Surgical Options for Thyroid Lump Treatment?
There are several non-surgical treatments available in Singapore for managing thyroid lumps, including:
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Needle Aspiration
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to drain fluid from cystic thyroid nodules. Performed under ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is inserted into the nodule to aspirate fluid, reducing its size and alleviating symptoms like pressure or cosmetic concerns. FNA is most effective for cystic or predominantly cystic nodules. However, there is a chance the fluid may reaccumulate and the cyst could return, requiring repeat procedures or additional treatments.
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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an advanced, minimally invasive technique for treating benign thyroid nodules. During this procedure, a special needle electrode is inserted directly into the nodule. This needle delivers high-frequency electrical currents, which generate heat and destroy the targeted nodule tissue. The body then naturally breaks down and absorbs the treated tissue over time, causing the nodule to shrink.
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High-Intensity Focus Ultrasound (HIFU)
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is another non-invasive technique that uses focused ultrasound waves to heat and destroy targeted tissue within the thyroid nodule. Unlike RFA, HIFU requires no needle insertion, making it an attractive option for patients seeking minimal invasiveness.
During the procedure, the patient lies down while a probe is placed on their neck over the nodule. The probe delivers precise pulses of high-intensity ultrasound energy, heating the tissue to about 85°C.
Benefits and Limitations of Non-Surgical Treatments
Advantages
- Less Downtime: Most non-surgical procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can often resume normal activities within hours or days.
- Preservation of Thyroid Function: Unlike surgery, which may involve removing part or all of the thyroid gland, these treatments target only the nodule. This leaves the healthy thyroid tissue intact, significantly reducing the risk of post-treatment hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid).
- No Scarring: As these procedures are minimally invasive, they do not leave a surgical scar on the neck, which is a significant cosmetic benefit for many patients.
- Fewer Risks: Non-surgical options avoid the risks associated with general anaesthesia and surgical complications, such as bleeding or nerve damage, making them safe for patients with comorbidities.
Limitations
- Recurrence: Although effective, there is a possibility that the nodule may regrow over time, requiring repeat procedures or alternative approaches.
- Not Suitable for All Cases: Non-surgical treatments are best for benign nodules. Suspicious or cancerous nodules often require surgical removal, and very large or complex nodules may not respond well to non-surgical methods.
Consult a Specialist for Thyroid Lumps
If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid lump and are considering your treatment options, schedule a consultation with A/Prof Luke Tan today. As a leading ENT specialist in Singapore, he has extensive experience in managing thyroid conditions and is well-known for his expertise in thyroid surgery. A/Prof Tan provides personalised guidance, helping you select the treatment that best fits your condition, lifestyle and long-term health goals.
