THYROID NODULES
LASER ABLATION (ThyLA)
Laser Thermal Ablation (LTA) of Thyroid Nodules
A gentle, organ-preserving method for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules
Laser thermal ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that dissects tissue by delivering controlled laser energy. Under real-time ultrasound guidance (similar to ultrasound-guided biopsy), the dedicated ThyLA fiber is inserted into the thyroid nodule to selectively ablate the nodular tissue.
Ablation of thyroid nodule
Benefits of the technology
Continuing our tradition of developing innovative minimally invasive treatments, we have successfully combined two wavelengths – 980 nm / 1470 nm and 1064 nm / 1470 nm – in a single medical laser to deliver excellent clinical outcomes both intraoperatively and postoperatively.
The dual diode laser, combined with high-quality fiber optics, ensures safe, effective and cost-efficient procedures for physicians and patients alike.
Advantages of laser thermal ablation
- Treatment possible with local anaesthesia
- High effectiveness, reduction of the nodule volume by about 50 % after three months
- Short treatment duration
- Protection and preservation of healthy thyroid tissue
- Good cosmetic results
- Easy to control penetration depth
- Function-preserving procedure, usually no medication necessary after the intervention
- Quick resumption of daily activities
- Treatment can be repeated as needed
- Suitable for risk patients
Advantages of the fiber
Our fibers are manufactured from premium-grade quartz glass, ensuring outstanding mechanical and thermal stability under high-power conditions in tissue contact mode. This allows specialists to perform precise and efficient procedures.
Videos of the procedure
biolitec® Thyroid Nodules Laser Ablastion (ThyLA)
Procedure video
A safe and effective laser procedure
Products
Our user-friendly medical diode lasers for thermal ablation provide a fast ROI thanks to low maintenance costs, affordability and the much faster procedures resulting from the use of the technology.
LEONARDO® DUAL 45 and LEONARDO® Mini DUAL
A compact and cost-efficient laser that offers the power you need, operating with the ideal wavelength combination of 1064/1470 nm or 980/1470 nm.
ThyLA Slim Fiber
The ThyLA fiber is an ultrafine laser fiber with a diameter of less than 1 mm, designed for introduction into thyroid nodules through an 18 G needle. It delivers highly targeted laser energy directly into the nodule, creating an olive-shaped zone that ensures uniform and controlled tissue ablation.
Thanks to its excellent ultrasound visibility, the position of the fiber can be precisely monitored throughout the procedure. This enhances safety and accuracy, minimizes the risk to surrounding structures and enables the effective, minimally invasive treatment of benign thyroid nodules.
Frequent Questions
What are the indications for Laser Thermoablation (LTA) of thyroid nodules?
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Symptomatic, benign, colloid, or cystic nodules
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Nodules causing cosmetic concerns or compressive symptoms
- Patients with high surgical risk or preference for minimally invasive therapy
- Recurrent cystic nodules after aspiration
What contraindications should be considered for the Laser Thermoablation (LTA) procedure?
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Suspicion of malignant thyroid lesions
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Critical proximity to nerve structures (e.g., recurrent laryngeal nerve) without reliable ultrasound guidance
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Uncontrolled coagulopathy
How should the patient be prepared for the LTA procedure?
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Ultrasound for detailed nodule assessment (size, volume, vascularization)
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Fine-needle aspiration to confirm benignity
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Patient counselling regarding procedure, possible side effects and follow-up
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Local anesthesia (subcutaneous infiltration along the planned needle path)
How does Laser Thermoablation of thyroid nodules work?
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Percutaneous puncture under ultrasound guidance
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Introduction of a ThyLA slim laser fiber into the nodule
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Application of laser energy
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Sequential ablation in multiple zones (“pull-back” technique) to ensure homogeneous treatment
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When the size or shape of the lesion to be treated requires it, the therapy takes place with the so-called “multiple overlapping shot technique” (moving shot technique). In this instance, the ThyLA fiber is relocated intranodally after each pulse. Thus multiple coagulative necroses are placed, and the entire nodule is treated. The ThyLA fiber was developed to enable a homogeneous and controlled penetration depth and, at the same time, an excellent ultrasound view.
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Optional: cyst aspiration prior to ablation in cystic nodules
What complications can occur?
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Common: local pressure sensation, mild dysphonia or local pain
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Rare: hematoma, infection, nerve injury, skin burn
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Very rare: hypothyroidism, peripheral nerve injury
What follow-up is recommended?
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Ultrasound at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months
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Volume reduction rate (VRR) measured: typically 50-80% after 6-12 months
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Documentation of symptom scores (compression, cosmetic concerns)
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Repeat LTA if incomplete reduction or residual nodules
How effective is Laser Thermoablation (LTA) compared to other minimally invasive techniques?
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LTA offers precise energy delivery and good control in small nodules
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Recurrences or incomplete ablation can be treated with a second session
What are the advantages of Laser Thermoablation (LTA) compared to surgery?
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Lower risk of hypothyroidism
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No scar, outpatient procedure possible
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Reduced perioperative risk, particularly in patients with comorbidities
When is surgical removal required despite LTA?
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Histologically confirmed malignancy
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Rapidly growing nodules with suspicion of malignant transformation
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Complex cystic nodules with recurrence after multiple LTA sessions
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Patient preference
As a physician, where can I learn the Laser Thermoablation (LTA) procedure?
biolitec® regularly organizes international workshops and online webinars with our main laser experts, teaching both theoretical and practical fundamentals. They are designed to assist physicians learn the procedure faster and apply it in a safe way. For upcoming workshops, please contact us and reserve your spot!
The content on this website is intended exclusively for healthcare professionals and is not directed to the general public
Patients seeking information about treatments should consult a qualified healthcare provider. biolitec® does not provide medical advice through this site.
