An article co-authored by Mercy Springfield endocrinologists Dr. Johnson Thomas and Dr. Greg Ledger and Mercy Research Clinical Research Manager Dr. Tracy Haertling was recently published in the Endocrine Practice journal.
The article, "Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Laser Ablation Therapy on Symptomatic Benign Thyroid Nodules, Using EchoLaser: Results of a Pilot Study in the US," reports the results of an initial pilot study addressing new treatment of thyroid nodules.
The study was designed to assess the effectiveness of a single, ultrasound-guided, laser ablation treatment administered in an outpatient setting, marking a significant step toward advancing minimally invasive treatment options for thyroid nodules. At the 12-month follow-up, there was an average nodule volume reduction of 71.087%. Patients experienced symptom relief, with no significant adverse events reported and no major changes in thyroid function or antibodies observed.
Dr. Ledger remarked, "Dr. Thomas's vision and leadership have propelled this study, offering hope to patients seeking minimally invasive options for thyroid nodules treatment."
These results underscore the immense potential of laser ablation as a transformative approach to thyroid nodule treatment, providing patients with a less invasive and more accessible alternative to surgery.
