Current evidence and strategies for preventing tumor recurrence following thermal ablation of papillary thyroid carcinoma.

Abstract

Background: The incidence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has been increasing, and thermal ablation has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to surgery for low-risk cases. However, post-ablation tumor progression remains a significant clinical challenge.

Methods: This review synthesizes existing literature on tumor progression after thermal ablation for PTC, analyzing potential causes and evaluating preventive strategies at different diagnostic and treatment stages.

Results: Current research reports indicate that the probability of disease progression following thermal ablation for PTMC ranges from 1.25 to 7.7%, a rate comparable to that of surgical management. Nodules exceeding 10 mm in diameter are associated with a higher risk of post-procedural progression. However, pathological evidence supporting these findings remains limited. Risk factors such as suboptimal patient selection and tumor proximity to critical structures further influence outcomes. Improved imaging guidance, standardized protocols, and stringent follow-up may reduce these complications.

Conclusion: When these recommendations are followed, thermal ablation for PTMC achieves effective reduction in tumor progression risk and represents a viable alternative for appropriately selected patients. However, expansion of its indications requires further robust evidence from large-scale, pathology-based studies.