Work

Microwave ablation for T1N1M0 papillary thyroid cancer with lymph node oligometastasis (≤3) – a preliminary study with median follow-up beyond 3 years

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of microwave ablation (MWA) for T1N1M0 PTC with LN oligometastasis (≤3).Materials and Methods In this retrospective study, 41 patients who underwent MWA for T1N1M0 PTC with LN oligometastasis between June 2018 and June 2023 were included. Progression-free survival (PFS), risk factors for tumor progression and complications were assessed.Results MWA was successfully performed in all the enrolled patients. The median age was 37 years (IQR: 30.5–46.0), with 13 males and 28 females. After a median follow-up of 43 months (IQR: 37.0–51.5; range: 20–70 months), the 1-, 3-, and 5-year PFS rates were 90.2%, 75.3%, and 62.0%, respectively. The maximum diameter of the PTC was the only significant risk factor for tumor progression (hazard ratio: 7.60; p = 0.010). Major complications included only transient hoarseness, occurring in 7.3% (3/41) of the patients, with full recovery within 2–3 months without treatment.Conclusion MWA is a feasible treatment option for selected patients with T1N1M0 PTC with LN oligometastasis (≤3), providing favorable therapeutic outcomes and low complication rate.

Source: International Journal of Hyperthermia

DOI: 10.1080/02656736.2025.2571047