Progress of thermal ablation in minimally invasive treatment on thyroid nodules

Objective To discuss the characteristics of thermal ablation technique in the treat-ment of thyroid nodule and provide references for choosing an appropriate ablation scheme. Methods We reviewed literatures and analyzed the principle of microwave ablation, radiofrequency ablation and laser ab-lation to review the recent clinical application of related technologies, clarifying their advantages and disad-vantages. Results Although many studies have confirmed the effect of thermal ablation in the treatment of certain malignant thyroid tumors and the metastatic lymph nodes, its complications were gradually valued because of the increased clinical application. Conclusion Different thermal ablation techniques have dif-ferent advantages and disadvantages, with proper indications taken into consideration. Key words: Ablation techniques; Thyroid nodule; Thyroid neoplasms