Radiofrequency Ablation Episodes

For seven years, thyroid RFA in the United States has operated without formal standards. Any licensed physician could offer the procedure regardless of their training, case volume, or documented outcomes. That's changing. Dr. Jules Aljammal was the first endocrinologist in the US to perform thyroid RFA for benign thyroid nodules. Dr. Shahzad Ahmad has since performed the highest number of RFA procedures of any endocrinologist in the country. Together they are the founder and president-elect of NASOIE — the North American Society of Interventional Endocrinology — and the architects of the first formal certification program for RFA providers in the US. In this episode they break down exactly what that certification requires, what it means for patients, and what questions to ask your provider right now — whether they are certified or not. In this episode: Why a medical license alone is not enough to safely perform thyroid RFA The 50-case minimum and what the certification actually…

Dr. Eren Berber is a Professor of Surgery at Cleveland Clinic and Director of Robotic Endocrine Surgery. He performed some of the first robotic thyroid operations in the US, brought thyroid RFA to Ohio, and has authored more than 350 scientific papers. His honest take on every major thyroid treatment option will surprise you. On robotic surgery: the only real advantage is avoiding a neck scar. Outcomes are not superior to conventional surgery — and he pioneered it. On ablation: he was skeptical initially. Four years of following his own patients changed his mind. Over 90% success rate in his first 100 RFA patients. Less than 5% complications. On the future: a nanopulse ablation trial is launching at Cleveland Clinic. ATA guidelines now formally include ablation as standard of care. On insurance calling RFA investigational: FDA cleared since 2018. CPT code active since 2025. That excuse is on borrowed time. Find Dr. Berber: Search his name at clevelandclinic.org and contact his o…

For a long time, a thyroid nodule diagnosis followed a predictable path — symptoms appeared, surgery was scheduled, and the gland was removed. The question was never if you would have surgery. It was when. That's changing. And Dr. Ian Orozco is one of the physicians leading that change. Dr. Orozco is a board-certified interventional endocrinologist based in Provo, Utah, and one of the most experienced RFA providers in the Intermountain West. After five years performing RFA within a larger institution, he made a bold move — taking over the Thyroid Institute of Utah, the oldest thyroid-only practice in the state, and rebuilding it entirely around the modern thyroid patient. In this episode, he joins Jennifer Holkem to discuss what that independence means for patient care, why a thyroid-only practice produces a fundamentally different experience, and why the urgency you felt at the end of your surgical consult was probably more about the practice's schedule than your actual medi…

What does it take to bring cutting-edge, nonsurgical thyroid care to patients in smaller, underserved communities? In this episode, Jen sits down with Dr. Jacques Gaudet, a board-certified otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon at Southern ENT Associates in South Louisiana, to find out. Dr. Gaudet traces his passion for thyroid care and ultrasound back to his medical training in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when resource-scarce conditions pushed him to master diagnostic ultrasound on his own terms. That same persistence eventually led him to become the second physician in the entire state of Louisiana to offer thyroid RFA — not to chase a trend, but to give his patients real options. In this conversation, Dr. Gaudet and Jen cover: Why ultrasound expertise is non-negotiable for anyone performing RFA How he counsels anxious patients newly diagnosed with thyroid nodules What success actually looks like after RFA — and why symptom relief matters more than…

The Future of Thyroid Treatment: Advanced RFA, Microcarcinoma, and Taiwan's "One-Stop Shop" Model 🇹🇼 This episode of Save Your Thyroid unveils the groundbreaking world of Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). Host Jennifer Holkem speaks with Dr. Chan Jung Chang, an expert Otolaryngologist from Taiwan, about the future of non-surgical thyroid treatment for both thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Dr. Chang details why RFA is so widely preferred in Taiwan—driven by a...

What are the real risks of thyroid surgery? A top otolaryngologist (ENT) surgeon, Dr. Michael J. Wolfe, joins me to discuss how to protect your voice and parathyroid glands—and when non-surgical Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a better option. In this episode, Dr. Michael J. Wolfe explains the crucial role ENTs play in thyroid care due to their deep expertise in neck anatomy. We explore the full diagnostic process for thyroid nodules, what your biopsy results really mean, and have a candi...

What's the hidden link between insulin resistance and thyroid nodules? Top endocrinologist Dr. Ahmet Ergin (@SugarMDs) joins me for an enlightening conversation about holistic thyroid health. In this powerful discussion, Dr. Ergin shares how integrative endocrinology, which blends traditional methods with functional medicine, is key to managing thyroid disorders. We explore the critical role of patient education and how lifestyle changes in diet, sleep, and exercise can profoundly impact y...

In this episode of Save Your Thyroid, Jennifer Holkem discusses the latest advancements in thyroid care, focusing on thyroid nodules and the innovative non-surgical treatment known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Joined by Dr. John Interlandi, they explore the history of thyroid treatment, the impact of nodular thyroid disease, and the benefits of RFA as a safe and effective alternative to surgery. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding thyroid health, the evolution of tre...

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Merry Sebelik, a pioneer in the field of thyroid care, discusses the transformative impact of Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) on thyroid treatment. She shares her journey as a surgeon and educator, emphasizing the importance of ultrasound in thyroid surgery and the global health implications of RFA. The discussion covers the advantages of RFA over traditional surgery, the challenges of implementing this technology in various healthcare settings, and the crit...

In this episode, Dr. James Suliburk and Dr. Ray Grogan discuss the advancements in thyroid care, particularly focusing on radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid cancer. They explore the evolution of RFA in the US, the safety concerns surrounding the procedure, and the importance of patient-centered care and shared decision-making. The conversation also delves into the criteria for RFA candidacy, the role of molecular testing in thyroid care, and the challenges of conducting randomized controlled trials in this field. The episode concludes with insights into the future of non-surgical thyroid care and the importance of finding experienced clinical teams for optimal patient outcomes.

In this episode, Dr. Britni Caplin, an expert ENT surgeon, discusses Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), a minimally invasive procedure to shrink thyroid nodules and avoid surgery. Based in Murfreesboro, TN, Dr. Caplin discusses her expertise in thyroid care, focusing on the innovative non-surgical options for thyroid nodules like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Ethanol Ablation. She emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care, collaboration between ENT and endocrinology, and the challenges of insurance coverage for these procedures. Dr. Caplin shares insights on how she helps patients choose between RFA and surgery, the significance of her ACTPS designation, and the integrated care model that enhances patient experience.

In this conversation, Dr. Richard Harding discusses the advancements in thyroid nodule treatment, focusing on two primary techniques: Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Nanosecond Pulsed Field Ablation (NSPFA). He explains the mechanisms, benefits, and patient experiences associated with each method, emphasizing the safety and efficacy of NSPFA, especially in delicate areas near critical structures like the recurrent laryngeal nerve. The discussion also covers patient feedback, ideal candidates for each procedure, and the future of these technologies in mainstream thyroid care.

In this episode, we have a reversal of roles. Host, Jennifer Holkem shares her journey as a thyroid patient, emphasizing the importance of patient advocacy and education. Interviewed by guest host, Dr. John Russell, they discuss the challenges patients face within the healthcare system, the significance of informed decision-making, and the emotional aspects of navigating treatment options. The conversation highlights the need for trust between patients and healthcare providers, the role of alter...

What Patients Need to Know with Dr. Ian Orozco Toxic Thyroid Nodules: RFA vs. RAI—What’s the Difference? In this episode, endocrinologist Dr. Ian Orozco joins Jennifer Holkem to break down the two main non-surgical treatment options for toxic thyroid nodules: radioactive iodine (RAI) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Learn how these treatments work, who they’re right for, and what every patient needs to know before choosing a path. If you've been told surgery is your only option, this episode is a must-watch. 🔹 What is a toxic thyroid nodule? 🔹 RFA vs. RAI: key differences, benefits, and risks 🔹 How to preserve thyroid function and avoid unnecessary surgery 🔹 Real-world considerations: lifestyle, fertility, and recovery 🔹 Why the experience of your provider matters

Today, we’re talking about how new 3D ultrasound technology is giving doctors a clearer, more accurate view of the thyroid and helping patients get better answers faster. Joining me is Dr. Alireza Falahati — a Mayo Clinic–trained, board-certified endocrinologist with a specialized focus on the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid and parathyroid tumors. He was the first U.S. physician to implement the advanced 3D Ultrasound System by PIUR Imaging.

In this episode of Save Your Thyroid with Jennifer Holkem, Jen is joined by Dr. Jules Aljammal to discuss the impact of thyroid nodules and the innovative non-surgical treatment option of radiofrequency ablation (RFA). They explore the nature of toxic thyroid nodules, the symptoms they cause, and the various treatment options available, including medication, surgery, and radioactive iodine. The episode features 2 patient testimonials highlighting their experiences with RFA treatment, emphasizing its effectiveness and the importance of patient choice in treatment options. Dr. Aljammal also shares exciting news about opening a new practice in Washington state, expanding access to thyroid care.

Today's guest is Dr. Shuchie Jaggi, a leading endocrinologist, co-director of the interdisciplinary thyroid program at Lenox Hill Hospital (NY), and a specialist in advanced thyroid imaging and minimally invasive treatments.Here’s what we’ll be covering today: ✅ The role of neck imaging in diagnosing and guiding treatment ✅ How ethanol ablation works and why it’s ideal for thyroid cysts ✅ The science behind radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and its growing use in clinical practice ✅ How these two techniques compare—when to choose one over the other ✅ The future of thyroid care and what’s on the horizon for nonsurgical intervention

Today’s guest is Dr. Dipan Desai, an otolaryngologist at ENT Associates in Clearwater, Florida. He completed residency training at Parkland Memorial Hospital and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and later pursued fellowship training in Head and Neck Endocrine Surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital, gaining expertise in radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and scarless thyroid/parathyroid surgery. Today, in addition to treating the full spectrum of ENT disorders, is now one of the first physicians in Florida to offer these innovative procedures. His patient care philosophy is deeply rooted in compassion, respect, and open communication. He believes that personalized and collaborative medicine is the key to creating lasting improvements in his patients’ health and well-being. With this understanding, he aims to work together with patients to find the treatment that is best suited to their individual needs.

Harrold had multiple thyroid nodules, and they were causing him issues with his voice. He sought out thyroid RFA from Dr. Luisa Leal and Dr. John Interlandi of New Horizon Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic in Nashville, Tennessee. This video documents Harrold's thyroid-saving treatment that allowed him to avoid surgery. What will be the final outcome? Watch the video to find out! Originally from Columbia, Dr. Leal opened the doors to her practice in 2016, offering the local Spanish-speaking population access to a bilingual specialist in state-of-the-art diabetes care. Dr. John Interlandi, a formerly retired endocrinologist with an extensive medical background in the Nashville area, came out of retirement to join Dr. Leal in her pursuit of providing thyroid RFA in 2021.

Today’s guest is Dr. Elizabeth Cottrill is an Associate Professor of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. There, she also serves as the residency Program Director and the Surgical Director of the Jefferson Thyroid and Parathyroid Center. Her research focuses on cancer diagnostics, clinical outcomes, and patient education. Her clinical practice focuses on the treatment and management of patients with thyroid and parathyroid diseases, and she has a special interest in advanced and aggressive forms of thyroid cancer as well as non-surgical ablative techniques for benign thyroid nodules.

Today’s guest is Dr. Antoine Eskander, a head and neck oncologist and reconstructive surgeon at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Head and Neck Disease Site Lead at the Odette Cancer Centre, and Chief of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery at Michael Garron Hospital in Toronto, Canada. Dr. Eskander is an internationally recognized researcher in several areas, including head and neck cancers, health services research, clinical epidemiology, and quality improvement. His research interest include topics such as access to care, disparities in care, adherence to guidelines, volume-outcome associations, and quality metrics. In today’s discussion, we explore the balance between patient empowerment and the anxiety caused by incidental nodule discoveries, the importance of individualized care and shared decision-making, the significance of better outcomes at high volume treatment centers, and the value in choosing the right physician. We also discuss thyroid RFA and the benefits of de-escala…

Today’s guest is Dr. Jonathon Russell. After training at the Cleveland Clinic, Dr Russell trained further at Johns Hopkins before spending almost 10 years there. He became the Chief of Head and Neck Endocrine Surgery at Johns Hopkins and was the director of the Thyroid Tumor Center. During that time, he was the first surgeon to complete transoral robotic surgery for thyroid cancer, led the largest series of transoral surgery in the West, and was the first group of Head and Neck Surgeons to offer RadioFrequency Ablation (RFA). He is the current president of the North American Society of Interventional Thyroidology (NASIT). In 2024, Dr Russell founded the Russell Center for Endocrine Health, where he continues to innovate as he offers each patient a personalized plan of care. Today’s conversation centers around the topic of thyroid RFA and insurance coverage. Specifically, a CPT billing code that has been created by the CMS. For the past 5 years, many patients have been eagerly awaiting…

Today’s guess is Dr. Jesse Pasternak, an academic surgeon and patient advocate. He is the chief of Endocrine Surgery in the Division of General Surgery at the University Health Network and Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Toronto.  His career’s focus is to use up-to-date data to push innovation in the treatment of surgical endocrinology.  He is responsible for bringing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of thyroid nodules to Canada.  He is chair of the research committee at the American Thyroid Association and currently runs a trial to treat small thyroid cancers with RFA.  He hopes to gain an understanding for cancer outcomes but likely more importantly, the effect of treatment and cancer worry on quality of life and survivorship.  He has 3 young kids, all of whom learned where the thyroid was before mastering the head, shoulders, knees and toes.

Dr. David Goldenberg, a head and neck surgeon at Penn State Health, emphasizes that RFA is just one tool in the toolbox and that the decision to use it depends on the patient's specific needs and circumstances. He discusses the process of determining candidacy for thyroid RFA and the importance of thorough evaluation and patient education. He also emphasizes the importance of choosing an experienced and skilled physician for RFA procedures. Lastly, Dr. Goldenberg shares his perspective on the term 'provider' and why he believes it is demeaning to physicians.