Is Recovery After Microwave Ablation Quick? Here's What You Need To Know
You may have heard about microwave ablation (MWA) as a non-surgical treatment for thyroid nodules. If you're thinking about undergoing MWA, your biggest question is likely: “What can I expect in terms of recovery after the procedure?”
The good news is recovery after MWA is fairly straightforward, quick, and much easier than traditional surgery. If you are exploring thyroid nodule treatment in Delhi and considering MWA as a non-invasive approach, this is what your recovery process will entail.
What Is Microwave Ablation And How Does It Work?
Microwave ablation uses heat generated by microwave energy to destroy abnormal thyroid tissue. MWA is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, meaning you will not require stitches, have prolonged hospital stay, or have significant downtime.
What To Expect Immediately After The Procedure:
1. Daycare Procedure
MWA is done as an outpatient basis in a hospital which does not require an overnight admission. Typically you will be monitored for about 2–4 hours after the procedure. Most patients are discharged home on the same day.
2. Pain / Discomfort
- You may experience some mild pain or some soreness of the throat.
- You may have a mild burning or stinging type sensation at the treatment site.
- Most patients find relief with over-the-counter pain relief (for example, paracetamol).
- There may be an intermittent hoarseness for a time; however, this usually improves over a matter of days.
- Major voice chances are rare (less than 2% of cases, according to a study published in the Thyroid Journal).
- Timeline For Recovery: What Happens In Days / Weeks.
3. 24 hours
- Rest at home.
- Do not lift anything heavy or participate in any vigorous physical activity.
- Eat soft, lukewarm foods, if your throat hurts.
4. Days 2–7
- Most people return to work between 1 to 2 days.
- Some minor swelling or bruising around the site may still be present.
- Drink a lot of fluids and avoid spicy foods.
5. 2 weeks
- Most people will notice that some pressure or discomfort that was be attributed to the nodule is likely improved.
- Most people recover depending on the amount of changes to their voice, by this time.
6. 1–3 months
- This is when you will have your first follow-up ultrasound, to check the nodule size.
- Clinical studies have shown that nodule volumes can reduce by a range of 50–80% in the first three months.
Tips To Support Smooth Recover
- For the first 24 hours, use a cold pack to help alleviate swelling.
- Don't shout or whisper, as shouting and whispering are the most stressful things for the vocal cords.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated to help reduce swelling.
- Do not drink alcohol (for 2 weeks following the procedure) and do not smoke during recovery.
- Keep your ultrasound and thyroid function tests follow-ups.
Is Microwave Ablation Safe in the Long Run?
Yes, many clinical trials support the claim that MWA is a safe and effective alternative to surgery.
- A 2020 review in Endocrine Practice found that MWA had a 95% success rate in shrinking benign nodules.
- Complications occur in less than 2–3% of cases if performed by trained professionals.
- There is no scar and no need for hormone replacement therapy in most cases.
- MWA is also approved by the US FDA and has extensive application in Europe and Asia.
Why Residents of Delhi are Choosing to Have MWA
1. Shorter Hospital Visits
The leading endocrine clinics in Delhi have started to offer MWA as a daycare procedure.
2. No General Anesthesia
The procedure can be done with local anaesthetic, which makes it appropriate for patients who are not surgical candidates.
3. Quick Recovery
You can be treated and readapt back to your normal routine within a few days instead of a few weeks.
4. Cost-Effective
The cost of MWA is generally lower than for surgery, especially if you factor in less time in the hospital and you are back at work sooner.
Real Life Case: Patient Journey from Delhi
Anita, a 39-year-old teacher from South Delhi, had a large thyroid nodule, which was making it difficult for her to swallow. She chose to have MWA at Essentia Medicals, which took less than 30 minutes to the version, she went home the same day, and returned to work in two days. Within three months of MWA, her nodule had decreased in size by 70%, and there was no noticeable scar.
When To Call Your Doctor?
Although complications are rare, make a phone call to your doctor, if you experience:
- Severe pain or swelling
- Continuous fever
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent voice changes
Where To Get Non Invasive Thyroid Nodules Ablation In Delhi
If you are looking for safe and effective treatment of thyroid nodules without surgery, Essentia Medicals is a recognised and trusted name.
We offer advanced non invasive thyroid nodules ablation in Delhi using current equipment and licensed radiologists.
Final Thoughts
Microwave ablation is a much easier and quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery; people in Delhi are returning to their daily, normal activity within a few days. With very few risks, and high success rates, Microwave Ablation is becoming the preferred modality for thyroid nodules.
