Thyroid Nodule Ablation Australia
A/Professor Catherine F Sinclair - Australia's First and most Experienced Thyroid Ablation Specialist
Dr. Catherine Sinclair is a dual fellowship trained thyroid, neck, and laryngology surgeon and a world-leading specialist in thyroid nodule ablation. Based in Melbourne and Sydney, she has over 15 years of experience performing in-office ultrasound and biopsies, completing more than 12,000 exams.
She performed New York’s first benign thyroid nodule ablation in 2019 and introduced the procedure to Australia in 2021. As of 2025, she remains the only Australian expert with this experience, performing multiple ablations each week. She teaches internationally, has published widely, and chaired the 2024 American Thyroid Association Statement on ablation safety.
Her practice focuses on safe, effective, and personalised non-surgical and surgical options for thyroid nodules. She guides patients through assessment, treatment, and follow up, and provides clear advice on pros and cons of different treatment approaches whether surgery, ablation or surveillance. Her dual fellowship training makes her especially qualified to manage thyroid conditions affecting swallowing, airway, and voice, attracting many singers, professional voice users, and patients with complex anatomy.
Conditions Treated
Thyroid Nodules
A thyroid nodule is a lump or abnormal growth in the thyroid gland. Most nodules are benign, while others may contain atypical or malignant cells. Nodules that reach a certain size or have a concerning appearance often need a targeted biopsy to rule out cancer.
Many nodules do not require treatment. When they grow or cause symptoms, intervention may be recommended. Options include surgery and ablation (either radiofrequency or ethanol depending on the nodule characteristics), which are non-surgical office- based treatments that shrinks nodules while preserving healthy thyroid tissue. Dr. Sinclair offers both approaches and will help determine which option is best for each individual patient.
Many nodules do not require treatment. When they grow or cause symptoms, intervention may be recommended. Options include surgery and ablation (either radiofrequency or ethanol depending on the nodule characteristics), which are non-surgical office- based treatments that shrinks nodules while preserving healthy thyroid tissue. Dr. Sinclair offers both approaches and will help determine which option is best for each individual patient.
Thyroid Cancer
For confirmed cancers, Dr. Sinclair provides surgical care if the cancer is larger than 1-1.5cm, or radiofrequency ablation for selected small papillary thyroid microcarcinomas. Ablation can be a good option for microcarcinomas provided the patient has been extensively counselled about ablation risks and benefits and agrees to return for follow up examinations.
Multinodular Goitre
A goitre is a term referring to an enlarged thyroid gland. Goitres often contain several nodules and are then referred to as ‘multinodular goitres’ Goitres can cause neck swelling, pressure, breathing or swallowing difficultiesy, or cosmetic concerns. Dr. Sinclair assesses each goitre carefully and recommends treatment based on symptoms, anatomy, and patient goals. Options may include surveillance, ablation, or surgery.
Thyroid Hormone Disorders
- Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not make enough hormone and may be linked to autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Patients with Hashimoto’s often develop thyroid nodules.
- Hyperthyroidism occurs when too much thyroid hormone is produced. Causes include Grave’s disease, inflammation, or an overactive thyroid nodule. When an overactive nodule is responsible, radiofrequency ablation can cure the hormonal excess and shrink the nodule.
Complex or Borderline Cases
Some patients require more specialised care. Dr. Sinclair’s dual training allows her to manage cases that involve voice concerns, nerve risk, airway issues, prior surgery, or unusual anatomy. She provides highly individualised assessments that account for throat, voice, and neck structure as well as thyroid health.
Expert Thyroid Nodule Care in Australia
Ultrasound and Biopsy
High quality ultrasound imaging and targeted biopsies help determine whether a thyroid nodule is suitable for ablation or if another treatment approach is better. Dr. Sinclair has performed over 3000 biopsies and more than 12000 neck ultrasounds. She publishes and lectures widely on ultrasound use in thyroid evaluation, thyroid cancer follow up, and lymph node assessment.
Ultrasound is central to her diagnostic process and guides treatment planning so healthy tissue is preserved whenever possible.
Ultrasound is central to her diagnostic process and guides treatment planning so healthy tissue is preserved whenever possible.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Benign Thyroid Nodules
RFA is a minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled heat to shrink benign nodules. It preserves the surrounding normal thyroid and avoids the need for general anesthesia or neck incisions. It avoids the need for post-procedure thyroid hormone replacement.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma
For selected small, low risk cancers, RFA can offer a focused treatment option supported by a structured follow up program.
Ethanol Ablation for Thyroid Cysts
Ethanol ablation is an injection based ablation technique that treats symptomatic thyroid cysts.
Surgical Options When Needed
If ablation is not suitable, Dr. Sinclair provides surgical care with a focus on tissue preservation and voice protection.
How Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation Works
A dedicated radiofrequency generator delivers controlled energy through a thin electrode into the targeted nodule. Dr. Sinclair moves the electrode throughout the nodule to ensure the entire area is treated. The body then resorbs the treated tissue over several months.
RFA is usually performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. There are no surgical incisions and the skin puncture site often fades within one to two days.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma
For selected small, low risk cancers, RFA can offer a focused treatment option supported by a structured follow up program.
Ethanol Ablation for Thyroid Cysts
Ethanol ablation is an injection based ablation technique that treats symptomatic thyroid cysts.
Surgical Options When Needed
If ablation is not suitable, Dr. Sinclair provides surgical care with a focus on tissue preservation and voice protection.
Benefits of Thyroid Nodule Ablation Compared to Surgery
- Preserves normal thyroid function
- No general anesthesia
- No hospital stay
- No neck scar
- Quick recovery
- Low risk of complications
- Strong long term nodule shrinkage when performed by an experienced specialist
Large nodules may need more than one treatment. This will be discussed during your assessment.
Risks of Ablation
All procedures carry risk, although serious complications from RFA are rare. Possible risks include:
- Bleeding
- Temporary hoarseness from nerve irritation
- Skin burns
- Infection
Very rare complications include injury to nearby structures such as the windpipe and, food pipe. The risk of permanent vocal cord nerve injury is less than 1 percent.
Pre-Consultation for Thyroid Nodule Ablation
During your initial consultation, Dr. Sinclair will:
- Take a detailed medical history
- Assess whether your symptoms are linked to the nodule
- Perform a full clinical examination
- Complete a detailed ultrasound examination to evaluate the nodule and nearby anatomy
- Examine your voice box to assess nerve function
- Discuss benefits, limitations, and risks of ablation
- Outline any additional tests needed before treatment
Procedure Details
Location
Procedures take place in Dr. Sinclair’s Melbourne or Sydney office.
Duration
Most ablations take 30 to 90 minutes depending on the size of the nodule.
Preparation
A preparation guide will be provided. Most medications can be continued except for blood thinners, which may need to be paused.
During the Procedure
Your neck is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia. Two grounding pads are placed on your thighs. Using ultrasound guidance, Dr. Sinclair places a thin electrode into the nodule and applies controlled energy. You will be awake, able to speak, and may be asked to count so your voice can be monitored in real time.
After the Procedure
You will be observed for 15 to 30 minutes before going home. Most daily activities can resume the same day, apart from heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for five days.
Effectiveness of Thyroid RFA
Shrinkage begins in the first few weeks and continues over several months. Typical reduction is:
- 40 to 70 percent at 3 to 6 months
- 70 to 90 percent by one year
Very large nodules may need more than one session. Follow up recommendations will be discussed during your consultation.
Surgery After Ablation
Surgery remains possible if needed. Although scar tissue may increase, experienced surgeons can operate safely and recovery is usually the same as standard thyroid surgery.
Advanced Intraoperative Neuromonitoring
Some patients require surgery for their thyroid disease. For these cases, Dr. Sinclair uses intraoperative neuromonitoring to help protect nerve function. This includes monitoring the laryngeal nerves during thyroid and parathyroid surgery and the facial nerve during salivary gland procedures.
Dr. Sinclair developed a continuous monitoring technique for the laryngeal nerves in 2016 that is now used internationally to support safer surgery and preserve voice quality.
Dr. Sinclair developed a continuous monitoring technique for the laryngeal nerves in 2016 that is now used internationally to support safer surgery and preserve voice quality.
Request a Specialist Thyroid Assessment
If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid nodule, goitre, or thyroid hormone disorder, a specialist assessment can help determine whether treatment is required and which options may be suitable. Dr. Catherine Sinclair provides comprehensive evaluation using high-resolution ultrasound, targeted biopsy when indicated, and clear discussion of surveillance, ablation, and surgical care.
Her practice focuses on safe, evidence-based management that considers thyroid function, anatomy, voice, and long-term outcomes. Patients across Australia are supported through a structured approach to assessment, treatment planning, and follow-up.
To find out more or to arrange an appointment, contact the clinic directly.
Her practice focuses on safe, evidence-based management that considers thyroid function, anatomy, voice, and long-term outcomes. Patients across Australia are supported through a structured approach to assessment, treatment planning, and follow-up.
To find out more or to arrange an appointment, contact the clinic directly.
Get a Consultation: 1300 370 664
What My Patients Say
She saved my life by performing thyroid surgery. i will always be thankful for it. she is always smiling and giving you positive energy. she is great.
Carlos B.
She is just a terrific person, very warm an understanding. She actually listened and presented hypothesis about my ailments that no other physician had before.
Jon M.
Very nice, very professional. She is not only an ENT but also an endocrinologist, did my thyroid sonogram right away. Very happy to meet her.
Victoria H.
I have been her patient for several years. She is always warm, attentive, and informative. She listens, doesn’t ignore my questions or concerns, and makes what is an uncomfortable doctor visit (the examination) as pleasant as possible. That is true of everyone I have met at that practice.
Judy-lynne P.
I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Sinclair. I did not feel rushed as has been my experience with other physicians. She took the time to thoroughly review my history and condition. She was attentive, engaging, understanding and very knowledgeable. I'm so happy I found her.
Rosanna C.
Dr. Sinclair is extremely knowledgeable provider with excellent bedside manners. She took her time to answer all of my questions and did all the necessary tests (including ultrasound and biopsy) during my appointment saving me a lot of time.
Natalia I.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is thyroid ablation painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure because local anesthesia numbs the area around the thyroid. You may feel slight pressure or warmth from the electrode, and aches in the ear or jaw, but significant pain is generally minimal. Dr. Sinclair monitors comfort throughout the procedure and can provide additional local anesthesia if needed, ensuring a safe and well-tolerated experience.
How soon can I return to normal activities?
Most patients return to their usual daily activities the same day or the next morning. You should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or any activity that puts strain on the neck for about five days. Mild swelling or tenderness at the treatment site may occur for a short period, but most routine tasks, including desk work and light walking, can be resumed immediately.
Will I need thyroid medication afterward?
Following ablation, thyroid function remains normal because the procedure preserves healthy thyroid tissue and only targets specific nodules. As such, patients are extremely unlikely to require lifelong hormone replacement following ablation, in contrast to partial thyroid surgery where there is a 30-40% chance of needing lifelong hormone postoperatively
Can ablation treat thyroid cancer?
RFA can be an option for selected small papillary thyroid microcarcinomas that are low risk. Patients must meet specific eligibility criteria, including tumor size, location and absence of lymph node involvement. For suitable cases, RFA offers a non- surgical treatment with focused energy delivered directly to the nodule, while preserving healthy thyroid tissue. Ongoing monitoring with ultrasound is required for follow up.
What if my nodule is very large?
Large nodules may require more than one treatment to achieve optimal shrinkage. Dr. Sinclair carefully evaluates the nodule’s size, shape, and response to ablation during follow up to determine whether additional sessions are necessary. Most patients achieve significant reduction with a single treatment, but planning for staged treatment ensures the best long-term results. Very large nodules may also have a higher cancer rate and Dr Sinclair will discuss the risks and benefits of ablation versus surgery for large nodules with you in detail so that you can make an informed treatment decision.
How do I know if my nodule is suitable for ablation?
Suitability depends on your nodule’s size, composition, location, and biopsy results, as well as whether it is causing symptoms. Dr. Sinclair performs a detailed ultrasound assessment to evaluate the nodule and surrounding structures, including nerves and blood vessels, to ensure safe and effective treatment. Only nodules that meet strict criteria are considered suitable for RFA.
How long does nodule shrinkage take?
Shrinkage typically begins after 2 weeks, although complete reduction develops over several months. Most nodules reduce by 40–70 percent within the first 3–6 months and up to 760–90 percent after one year. Cystic nodules may shrink faster than solid ones. Very large nodules may take longer to shrink or require multiple ablation sessions, which will be discussed during your initial consultation.
Is surgery still an option later?
Yes. Surgery remains possible if needed, even after ablation. While some scar tissue may form in the treated area, experienced thyroid surgeons can operate safely. In most cases, recovery time and surgical outcomes are similar to standard thyroid surgery, and the decision to operate is made only if clinically indicated.
Contact Us
Please reach out for enquiries and consultations regarding thyroid nodule ablative treatments.