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Anna Fashandi, MD Performs UVA’s First RFA Procedure to Treat a Thyroid Nodule

January 28, 2025 by Department Website Manager

University of Virginia Anna Fashandi, MD, Surgical OncologyDr. Anna Fashandi successfully performed UVA’s first radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure to treat a thyroid nodule. RFA utilizes noninvasive thermal treatment to address solid tumors/nodules. RFA has been established for some time in treating tumors of various organ systems, such as the liver, but its recent application to thyroid nodules provides an innovative option for patients. In this case, Dr. Fashandi used RFA to treat a symptomatic, benign thyroid nodule that had been causing discomfort for the patient. The procedure lasted about 45 minutes, and the patient was able to return home following 30 minutes of observation. RFA currently targets benign thyroid nodules, but there is ongoing research exploring its potential use for small or recurrent cancers.