116 episodes

This show is for thyroid patients determined to improve their quality of life, with the best information available.
You will gain insight from those who have discovered improved well-being regardless of setbacks, and hear from leading healthcare professionals, including endocrinologists, surgeons, functional medicine practitioners, and radiologists.

Doctor Thyroid Philip James interviews top thyroid experts about surgery, nutrition, endoc

    • Health & Fitness
    • 4.2 • 63 Ratings

This show is for thyroid patients determined to improve their quality of life, with the best information available.
You will gain insight from those who have discovered improved well-being regardless of setbacks, and hear from leading healthcare professionals, including endocrinologists, surgeons, functional medicine practitioners, and radiologists.

    The Dangers of Thyroid Ablation and its Rapid Adoption

    The Dangers of Thyroid Ablation and its Rapid Adoption

    As the medical community swiftly embraces thyroid ablation, a groundbreaking non-surgical treatment for thyroid nodules, concerns arise about the potential risks associated with its rapid adoption. Key among these concerns is the lack of ultrasound expertise among practitioners and the contentious decision to treat nodules that may be too small to warrant intervention. This article delves into the insights of Dr. Jagdish Dhingra, a seasoned thyroid surgeon, who highlights the crucial balance between leveraging medical innovations and ensuring patient safety through skilled application and judicious treatment decisions. In the rapidly evolving field of medical treatments, thyroid ablation stands out as a significant advancement, offering a non-surgical option for patients with thyroid nodules. However, the quick adoption of this technique across the United States has raised concerns among experts about its application and the potential risks involved. In a recent interview on the RFAMD podcast, hosted by Philip James, Dr. Jagdish Dhingra, a seasoned thyroid surgeon with over 25 years of experience, shared his insights on the dangers of the rapid embrace of thyroid ablation and the critical importance of skilled ultrasound technique in its success.
    Goodwill missions to Africa Dr. Dhingra, known for his extensive work and goodwill missions in Africa, particularly Rwanda, where he volunteers to perform surgeries on women affected by large goiters, emphasizes the need for caution. His annual trips to Africa highlight his commitment to addressing thyroid-related conditions and his expertise in managing complex cases.
    Goiter in Colombia The conversation also touched upon the impressive work of Dr. Juan Pablo Dueñas in Medellín, Colombia, who successfully treated a patient with a very large goiter using ablation. This case exemplifies the potential of thyroid ablation when applied correctly and with the requisite skill.
    Dangers of thyroid ablation and ultrasound However, Dr. Dhingra pointed out the significant risks associated with the procedure, especially when used for nodules that are too small or by practitioners lacking in precise ultrasound-guided techniques. He warned against the treatment of small, benign thyroid nodules with ablation, arguing that observation rather than intervention is often the best approach in such cases. The risks, including major vessel and nerve injury, are heightened in the absence of expertise in ultrasound guidance.
    The expertise required for safe and effective thyroid ablation extends beyond surgical skills, involving proficiency in ultrasound to avoid damaging vital neck structures. This underscores the importance of comprehensive training and experience in both ultrasound and surgery for those performing thyroid ablations.
    Thyroid ablation guidelines As thyroid ablation gains popularity, Dr. Dhingra advocates for establishing and adhering to strict guidelines to ensure patient safety. These guidelines would ideally include rigorous training and qualification criteria for practitioners, akin to the well-defined protocols followed in countries like South Korea, which has successfully integrated thyroid ablation into their healthcare system.
    How to find a thyroid ablation doctor? For patients considering thyroid ablation, finding a qualified and experienced practitioner is crucial. Dr. Dhingra suggests visiting www.rfamd.com, a resource that can help patients connect with skilled ablation doctors. This platform provides an avenue for patients to seek treatment from professionals who are not only proficient in ultrasound-guided procedures but also have a thorough understanding of when ablation is appropriate.
    The rapid adoption of thyroid ablation in the United States represents a double-edged sword; it’s a promising treatment that can significantly benefit patients when applied judiciously and with the proper expertise. However, without careful consideration of the risks and strict a

    • 20 min
    Revolutionizing Thyroid Treatment: Dr. Emad Kandil Advocates for Thyroid Ablation Over Surgery

    Revolutionizing Thyroid Treatment: Dr. Emad Kandil Advocates for Thyroid Ablation Over Surgery

    In an enlightening episode of the RFAMD podcast, hosted by Philip James, Dr. Emad Kandil from Tulane University casts a new light on the treatment of thyroid conditions, challenging conventional surgical approaches and advocating for the pioneering method of thyroid ablation. This interview not only delves into Dr. Kandil’s personal journey into medicine but also explores the evolving landscape of thyroid treatment, highlighting the potential benefits of ablation over traditional surgery.
    Personal Journey to Medicine The episode begins with a personal anecdote from Dr. Kandil, tracing his initial passion for mathematics and critical thinking to a pivotal moment in his youth involving his brother’s seizure. This incident, occurring in his native Egypt, steered him away from engineering towards a career in medicine, driven by a newfound desire to make a tangible impact on people’s lives.
    Thyroid Ablation: A Minimally Invasive Alternative With thousands of thyroid surgeries under his belt, Dr. Kandil is not your typical advocate against surgery. However, his pioneering work in thyroid ablation in the United States, with nearly a thousand procedures to his credit, positions him uniquely in this field. Thyroid ablation, he explains, is increasingly being used to treat a variety of thyroid conditions, ranging from benign nodules to certain thyroid cancers, offering a less invasive option with fewer complications and a lesser impact on patients’ quality of life.
    Challenges in Adopting New Medical Techniques The conversation takes a critical turn as Dr. Kandil addresses the challenges in the widespread adoption of thyroid ablation. He emphasizes the need for proper training and expertise among physicians to prevent complications. His concerns extend to the rapid expansion of training programs, warning against unqualified practitioners who might cause more harm than good.
    Patient-Centric Approach and Recovery Dr. Kandil also sheds light on the patient experience during and after thyroid ablation. He notes that most procedures are performed under local anesthesia, with some patients preferring sedation. The recovery is notably swift, with many patients able to leave the same day, which is a significant advantage over traditional surgery.
    Navigating the Healthcare System A significant portion of the interview is dedicated to discussing the cost of thyroid ablation in the United States and the challenges patients face due to the lack of insurance coverage for this new procedure. Dr. Kandil stresses the importance of patient education and advocacy, urging patients to thoroughly research their options and seek second opinions.
    Looking Towards the Future In his concluding remarks, Dr. Kandil reflects on the future of thyroid treatment. He envisions a shift towards fewer surgeries, enhanced by advancing technologies and precision techniques. His message is clear: the medical community must adapt to new, less invasive methods that prioritize patient well-being and quality of life. Dr. Emad Kandil’s interview with Philip James marks a significant step in bringing attention to thyroid ablation as a viable alternative to surgery. His insights and personal journey serve as a beacon for both medical professionals and patients navigating the complex world of thyroid treatment. As this method gains traction, it promises to reshape the landscape of thyroid care, prioritizing minimally invasive procedures that offer better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.
    Are you an ablation doctor or searching for one? Get listed on the directory at www.rfamd.com ✅
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    About Philip James As the host of the popular RFAMD and Doctor Thyroid podcasts, Philip James remains committed to sharing inspiring stories, valuable insights, and groundbreaking discoveries in the world of healthcare, making a positive impact on the lives of countless listeners.
    Philip’s thought-provoking interviews have covered

    • 44 min
    Revolutionizing Thyroid Care: Dr. Julia Noel Discusses Ablation and Innovation on The RFAMD Podcast

    Revolutionizing Thyroid Care: Dr. Julia Noel Discusses Ablation and Innovation on The RFAMD Podcast

    Pioneering the Future of Thyroid Care: A Conversation with Dr. Julia Noel Palo Alto, CA — In a recent episode of the RFAMD podcast, host Philip James welcomed a trailblazer in the field of thyroid treatment, Dr. Julia Noel of Stanford University School of Medicine. Known for her pioneering work in thyroid ablation, Dr. Noel shared insights on the evolving landscape of thyroid care, emphasizing innovative ablation technologies that are reshaping patient experiences.
    From Mathematics to Medicine Dr. Noel’s journey into the medical field was not typical. Initially drawn to mathematics, inspired by her father, she found her calling in surgery, where she could blend problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach. This unique blend of analytical thinking and surgical precision has defined her career.
    Ablation Over Surgery: A Paradigm Shift Central to Dr. Noel’s practice is thyroid ablation, a technique that offers an alternative to traditional surgery. With over thousands of surgeries to her credit, she has been a vocal advocate for techniques like radiofrequency, ethanol, and microwave ablation. These methods, she notes, are crucial in reducing the need for invasive procedures, preserving thyroid function, and improving quality of life.
    The Technology at the Forefront During the interview, Dr. Noel highlighted the rapid advancement in ablation technology. She pointed out that while radiofrequency ablation is currently the most user-friendly and researched method, emerging technologies promise even more groundbreaking developments. These future techniques may not even rely on heat generation, opening new avenues for treatment.
    Navigating the Risks With any medical procedure come risks, and thyroid ablation is no exception. Dr. Noel candidly discussed potential complications like voice changes, discomfort, and nodal rupture. However, she reassured that most of these risks are minor and reversible, underlining the importance of skilled execution and patient awareness.
    A Surge in Patient Education An interesting aspect of Dr. Noel’s work is her approach to patient education and outreach, particularly through social media. She stressed the importance of accurate, high-quality information in guiding both patients and physicians, acknowledging the growing role of digital platforms in patient advocacy.
    Challenges in Training and Standardization As thyroid ablation gains popularity, Dr. Noel emphasized the need for standardized training and guidelines. She expressed concern over the “Wild Wild West” atmosphere as more doctors seek to learn these techniques, underscoring the need for cautious and well-guided adoption of the technology.
    The Cost Factor Addressing the practical aspects of thyroid ablation, Dr. Noel spoke about the variability in insurance coverage and costs in the United States. She noted that while some patients on the West Coast enjoy substantial coverage, others face significant out-of-pocket expenses, highlighting the need for broader insurance acceptance.
    Looking to the Future Dr. Noel’s vision for the future of thyroid treatment is one of optimism, contingent on the acceptance of new medical codes and continued technological innovation. She sees a world where thyroid nodules and cancer are treated more efficiently and less invasively, a testament to the dynamic nature of medical progress.
    Dr. Julia Noel’s interview on the RFAMD podcast provides a compelling look into the future of thyroid care. Her dedication to advancing treatment options, patient education, and the safe adoption of new technologies sets a benchmark in the field of thyroid health. As these technologies evolve, Dr. Noel’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the potential for improved patient care and the importance of informed medical choices.
    Are you an ablation doctor or searching for one? Get listed on the directory at www.rfamd.com ✅
     
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    About Philip James As the host of

    • 30 min
    Thyroid Ablation and Quality of Life with Dr. Erivelto Volpi

    Thyroid Ablation and Quality of Life with Dr. Erivelto Volpi

    Thyroid Ablation: A Game-Changer in Preserving Quality of Life www.rfamd.com
    Thyroid disorders, particularly those requiring surgery, have long been a concern for patients due to the potential lifelong dependence on medication and associated quality of life changes. However, a significant shift is occurring in thyroid treatment with the advent of thyroid ablation, a technique that is rapidly gaining preference among patients and physicians alike.
    The Rise of Thyroid Ablation In a recent podcast interview on RFAMD, Dr. Erivelto Volpi, a renowned head and neck surgeon from São Paulo, Brazil, shared his extensive experience in thyroid ablation. Dr. Volpi, who has performed around 8,000 thyroid surgeries and 400 thyroid ablations in over 35 years, notes the growing trend towards thyroid ablation. He attributes this shift primarily to the preservation of the patient’s quality of life, a crucial factor often overshadowed in traditional surgical approaches.
    Why Patients Prefer Thyroid Ablation Dr. Volpi explains that most patients seeking thyroid ablation do so not just to avoid surgery but to maintain their quality of life. They fear the changes that lifelong medication post-surgery might bring, having seen friends or family struggle with hormone replacements. Thyroid ablation, which involves radiofrequency or microwave treatment, offers an effective alternative. It shrinks benign thyroid nodules and even treats initial cancers, preserving thyroid function and thus the patient’s pre-existing quality of life.
    The Global Perspective and Acceptance Thyroid ablation is not just a localized phenomenon. Dr. Volpi highlights its rapid adoption worldwide, with countries like South Korea, Brazil, Italy, France, Spain, Turkey, and Egypt leading in this practice. This global acceptance is partly due to patient advocacy and the internet, which have empowered patients to seek the best treatment options, often traveling across borders to access this care.
    The Procedure and Its Benefits Compared to conventional surgery, thyroid ablation is minimally invasive, with fewer complications like voice changes. Recovery is swift, often within 24 to 48 hours, significantly quicker than traditional surgery. This aspect further reinforces its preference among patients.
    Are you an ablation doctor or searching for one? Get listed on the directory at www.rfamd.com ✅
     
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    About Philip James As the host of the popular RFAMD and Doctor Thyroid podcasts, Philip James remains committed to sharing inspiring stories, valuable insights, and groundbreaking discoveries in the world of healthcare, making a positive impact on the lives of countless listeners.
    Philip’s thought-provoking interviews have covered a wide range of healthcare topics, from cutting-edge technologies and surgical advancements to patient experiences and the impact of medical research on society.
    LinkedIn  

    • 30 min
    Thermal Ablation as a Game Changer: It Will Replace 50% of Thyroid Surgeries, Dr. Giovanni Mauri

    Thermal Ablation as a Game Changer: It Will Replace 50% of Thyroid Surgeries, Dr. Giovanni Mauri

    FIND A THYROID ABLATION DOCTOR at www.rfamd.com FOLLOW @DoctorThyroid #thyroid #thyroidcancer #ultrasound 
    Introduction
    ⦿ Host: Welcome by the host of the RFAMD podcast.
    ⦿ Guest: Introduction of Dr. Giovanni Mauri, a medical professional from Milan, Italy.
    Dr. Mauri's Journey into Medicine
    ⦿ Childhood Influence: Inspired by his father, a radiologist.
    ⦿ Career Choice: Fascination with radiology and interventional radiology.
    ⦿ Family Background: His father worked in diagnostic radiology in an oncological hospital.
    History of Ablation in Italy
    ⦿ Early Adoption: Discussion of pioneers in ablation treatments in Italy, starting in the 1980s.
    ⦿ Development: The evolution of ablation techniques, from ethanol ablation for liver cancers to radiofrequency ablation.
    Dr. Mauri's Specialization
    ⦿ Scope of Ablation: Treating various cancers (liver, kidney, lung, bone, soft tissues) with thermal ablation.
    ⦿ Focus on Thyroid Ablation: Special emphasis on treating both benign and malignant thyroid diseases.
    Patient Success Stories
    ⦿ Personal Case: A female patient treated multiple times for lymph node metastasis, avoiding further surgery.
    ⦿ Impact on Patients: Emphasizing the success and life-changing effects of successful thyroid ablation treatments.
    Thyroid Surgery vs. Ablation
    ⦿ Patient Perspective: Benefits in terms of invasiveness and future hormonal treatment.
    ⦿ Medical Community: Surgeons appreciating the option of ablation to manage resources and time effectively.
    Global Trends in Thyroid Ablation
    ⦿ FDA Approval: The significant impact of FDA approval in the U.S. in 2018.
    ⦿ Rapid Growth: Thyroid ablation as the fastest-growing field in ablation treatments worldwide.
    Dangers of Rapid Growth
    ⦿ Training and Expertise: Emphasizing the necessity of proper training and the risks posed by inexperienced practitioners.
    ⦿ Comparison of Techniques: Differences between traditional surgery and ultrasound-guided ablation procedures.
    Pioneers in Thyroid Ablation
    ⦿ Innovations: Introduction of specifically designed needles and techniques in Korea and Italy. ⦿ Global Adoption: The spread of thyroid ablation practices to countries like South America, North America, and Europe.
    Risks of Thyroid Ablation
    ⦿ Medical Risks: Potential damages during the procedure, such as bleeding or nerve damage.
    ⦿ Technical Challenges: Importance of ultrasound skills and adjunctive techniques to minimize risks.
    Risks of Thyroid Ablation
    ⦿ Medical Risks: Potential damages during the procedure, such as bleeding or nerve damage. 
    ⦿ Technical Challenges: Importance of ultrasound skills and adjunctive techniques to minimize risks.
    Unsuccessful Cases
    ⦿ Benign Nodules: Rare unsuccessful cases, often due to initial under-treatment.
    ⦿ Malignant Tumors: Possibility of incomplete ablation, with options for re-treatment.
    Selecting the Right Provider
    ⦿ Criteria for Choosing: Experience of the physician, ideally in a hospital setting for beginners.
    ⦿ Importance of Supervision: Emphasis on proper environment and supervision for new practitioners.
    Addressing Skepticism
    ⦿ Literature and Communication: Using scientific evidence and open discussions to address concerns.
    ⦿ Surgical Alternatives: Emphasizing ablation as a reversible option compared to definitive surgery.
    Types of Ablation
    ⦿ Radiofrequency vs. Microwave: Discussion on the advantages and risks of each type in thyroid treatments.
    Guidelines and Clinical Experience
    ⦿ Lag in Guidelines: The delay in incorporating new treatments like ablation into official guidelines.
    ⦿ Individualized Treatment: Tailoring treatment options based on clinical experience, despite guidelines.
    Guidelines and Clinical Experience
    ⦿ Lag in Guidelines: The delay in incorporating new treatments like ablation into official guidelines.
    ⦿ Individualized Treatment: Tailoring treatment options based on clinical experience, despite guidelines.
    P

    • 44 min
    UK Doctors Recommended Surgery for Thyroid Goiter, But Italian Doctor Offers Non-Surgical Alternative with RFA

    UK Doctors Recommended Surgery for Thyroid Goiter, But Italian Doctor Offers Non-Surgical Alternative with RFA

    September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Important, surgery isn’t always necessary for treating thyroid cancer. In fact: as many as one in three people have thyroid cancer and do not die from it, rather, with it.  In the world of medicine, it’s not uncommon for patients to feel overwhelmed and uncertain when faced with a diagnosis that requires surgery. For Peter Miller, a 64-year-old man from the UK, this was certainly the case when he was diagnosed with thyroid goiter. Three specialists recommended thyroidectomy as the only viable treatment option, but Peter was hesitant to undergo such a procedure due to the potential risks and complications associated with it. Fortunately, Peter took matters into his own hands and conducted his own research, which led him to an alternative treatment option – Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). Through an article written by Philip James and the Philip James YouTube channel, Peter discovered Dr. Roberto Valcavi, an Appalachian doctor in Italy, who had experience performing the RFA procedure.
    After discussing his options with Dr. Valcavi via email and video consultation, Peter underwent the RFA procedure in Italy. The results were remarkable – Peter experienced significant improvement in his symptoms, and he was happy to have avoided surgery.
    Peter’s story highlights the importance of being an advocate for your own health and well-being. Conducting research, seeking second opinions, and exploring all treatment options are crucial steps in making informed medical decisions. Peter’s success with RFA also underscores the importance of raising awareness about this non-surgical treatment option.
    Despite its efficacy, RFA is not widely available in many countries, and healthcare professionals may not be aware of it as a treatment option for thyroid goiter. It is crucial to raise awareness about RFA so that patients have access to all viable treatment options.
    Peter’s experience with RFA serves as an inspiration for patients who may be hesitant to undergo surgery for thyroid goiter. Being your own advocate, doing research, and exploring all treatment options can lead to better health outcomes. And with the help of knowledgeable medical professionals like Dr. Valcavi, patients can find the right treatment option that works best for them.
    🔷🔷🔷🔷
    About Dr. Roberto Valcavi Roberto Valcavi MD, FACE, ECNU is specialist in Endocrinology and specialist in Internal Medicine. 20 years and 1800+ RFA procedures done; laser since 2000 and radiofrequency ablation starting in 2010.
    At present, Dr. Roberto Valcavi is Director of the E.T.C. (Endocrine & Thyroid Clinic) in Reggio Emilia, Italy, dedicated to the diagnosis and therapy of endocrine neck (thyroid, parathyroid, lymph nodes) benign and malignant lesions. 
    He is specialized in ultrasound- guided ablative therapy of thyroid nodules by radio frequency (RFA), minimally invasive surgery that is able to effectively treat more than 90 % of benign thyroid nodules and over 80 % of malignant thyroid nodules, saving the thyroid gland.
    View Full Profile: Dr. Roberto Valcavi
    About Philip James As the host of the popular RFAMD and Doctor Thyroid podcasts, Philip James remains committed to sharing inspiring stories, valuable insights, and groundbreaking discoveries in the world of healthcare, making a positive impact on the lives of countless listeners.
    Philip’s thought-provoking interviews have covered a wide range of healthcare topics, from cutting-edge technologies and surgical advancements to patient experiences and the impact of medical research on society.
    LinkedIn Content on the RFAMD and Doctor Thyroid with Philip James websites and podcasts is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. See our full Legal Disclaimer for details.

    • 26 min

Customer Reviews

4.2 out of 5
63 Ratings

63 Ratings

Mlaap ,

Informative & Solid Thyroid Advice

Listen to this before accepting surgery as your answer! Excellent podcast with authentic intention behind it from Philip James. As a patient with Hashimoto’s for many years who recently was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma, I’ve learned so much about RFA as a treatment - and my thyroid specialist never even mentioned this. Thankful for this podcast as a resource. 👏🏼👏🏼

Amletha ,

Learning to improve my condition- via knowledge

Thanks for this awesome effort- I have learned a lot. Mainly there are ignorant physicians who are ill educated in this complex body science and yet will not hesitate to tell me that it’s all in my head.
This podcast is life saving- keep it going, where can I consult you as a gate keeper?

cj9indy ,

Excellent resource. Wish I had know about Doctor Thyroid 2 year ago

I especially enjoy listening to the guest doctors. Some very good advice on so many topics related to the Thyroid gland

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