Novel and Advanced Ultrasound Techniques for Thyroid Thermal Ablation

Thyroid radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation are widely adopted minimally invasive treatments for diverse thyroid conditions worldwide. Fundamental skills such as the trans-isthmic approach and the moving shot technique are crucial for performing thyroid ablation, and advanced techniques, including hydrodissection and vascular ablation, improve safety and efficacy and reduce complications. Given the learning curve associated with ultrasound-guided therapeutic procedures, operators need training and experience. While training models exist, limited attention has been given to ultrasound maneuvers in ablation needle manipulation. This article introduces two essential maneuvers, the zigzag moving technique and the alienate maneuver, while also reviewing the latest ultrasound techniques in thyroid ablation, contributing valuable insights into this evolving field.

The impact of diabetes mellitus on the survival of patients with acromegaly.

INTRODUCTION: An increased risk of mortality in patients with uncontrolled acromegaly has been reported in several studies. We aimed to assess the impact of co-morbidities on the survival of patients with acromegaly after long-term treatment and follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed for 285 patients with active acromegaly, who were admitted to the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan between 1978 and 2012. Of these patients, 106 (37.2%) were diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM). During the follow-up period, 21 cases of histological proved malignant in acromegalic patients, and DM with acromegaly had a higher incidence of malignancy (13.2% vs. 3.8%; p < 0.01). The 5-, 10-, and 20-year survival rates were 93.1%, 86.9%, and 84.7% for the DM group, respectively, and 96.5%, 96.5%, and 96.5% for the non-DM group, respectively. After a mean follow-up of 15.1 ± 0.6 years, age, DM, coronary heart disease, and malignancy were found to be significant factors of mortality. Control of growth hormone and IGF-1 levels also conferred a marginal survival benefit. CONCLUSIONS: DM and malignancy significantly influence the survival of patients with acromegaly; thus, these patients need close follow-up and appropriate therapy. (Endokrynol Pol 2016; 67 (5): 501-506).