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This topic is now available for public feedback until April 13, 2026. Please forward this page to any individual you think may be interested in reviewing our draft reports. All comments will be considered before a final recommendation is made and posted here.

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About this Topic

Thyroid nodules are common. Most are benign (i.e., not cancerous) and do not need to be treated. However, treatment may be needed when larger nodules lead to compressive symptoms (e.g., difficulty breathing or trouble swallowing) or when the nodules themselves produce thyroid hormone (called “autonomously functioning thyroid nodules” or AFTNs). Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common type of thyroid cancer and it may also need to be treated if there is a risk of the cancer growing or spreading.

Surgery is the usual treatment for thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid cancer, but it is invasive and comes with risks of complications. Ablative technologies (including radiofrequency, microwave, laser and high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation) use high temperature, chemicals or electricity to shrink or remove the nodule. They do not require general anesthesia, a surgical incision, or removal of the thyroid gland and they could be alternatives to surgery.

The Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee considered the clinical, economic, and patient preferences and values evidence reported in the health technology assessment. The health technology assessment evaluated different types of ablative technologies, but only radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is licensed by Health Canada and is being used in Ontario.

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For questions about this draft recommendation or public feedback process, please contact HealthInnovationPathway@ontariohealth.ca.