Percutaneous Ethanol Injection

[njb66]

I have a hot nodule and a very low TSH of 0.02.  I've dealt with a low TSH for eight years and am functioning fine.  Two weeks ago I was informed by my endo that my only options were radioactive iodine and surgery; I was told I "had" to do one or the other.

In researching, I have found information on percutaneous ethanol injection, but this procedure is performed primarily overseas.  Do you know of any facility in the US that performs this type of procedure for hot nodules?

Thank you!

[GravesLady]

i don't thnk the US does Percautions Ethanol Injections as yet. AACE Endocrine Practice Vol 12 No. 1 January/February 2006, US-Guided Percautions Ethanol Injections PEI , states that small residual amount of tissue persists and accounts for the high relaps rate and A clinically significant decrease in nodules size after PEI has been reported in patients with solitary solid benign thyroid nodules that were cold on scintigraphy.  Therefore, PEI is not indicated for treatment.  

[njb66]

Thank you.

I read a report from MayoClinic.com, posted on CNN.com, dated February 25, 2005, which stated the following:

"Alcohol ablation - In this procedure, small, hyperfunctioning nodules are injected with ethyl alcohol (ethanol), which helps shrink the nodules and improve symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Although some people may need up to eight injections — usually given at two-month intervals — other people require only one. You receive these treatments on an outpatient basis and unlike some other treatments, alcohol ablation doesn't cause hypothyroidism. Side effects of the procedure include headache and burning pain at the injection site that may radiate to the jaw, although the pain rarely lasts more than a few days. In the United States, this therapy is primarily available at referral centers."  

I have tried contacting Mayo Clinic to get more info but have not received a reply.

Thank you, GravesLady, for your quick response.

[GravesLady]

yes, i have read the same, probably from mayo also.  good luck i hope you find a place in the US that will do the treatment.