TL;DR: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offers a safe, scar-free, and effective alternative to thyroid surgery. This blog reviews the essential RFA equipment clinicians need to treat thyroid nodules using STARmed America’s advanced RF ablation systems.
- RFA is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided treatment for benign thyroid nodules.
- STARmed’s VIVA combo RF Generator provides controlled, high-power RF output with multiple safety-enhancing modes.
- The STAR RF Electrode offers fixed active tip lengths for customizable ablation with precision and maneuverability.
- The VIVA II RF Electrode features an adjustable tip (5–30 mm), reducing the need for multiple devices.
- Over 200 clinical studies support STARmed’s equipment for achieving surgical-like outcomes with fewer risks.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatment for thyroid nodules. Instead of surgery, clinicians can use specialized RFA equipment to destroy benign thyroid nodules from within. This targeted, ultrasound-guided approach to treatment subsequently preserves healthy thyroid tissue.
First introduced in South Korea in 2002, thyroid RFA now has a proven track record. There are over 200 clinical articles worldwide demonstrating its efficacy. As of 2025, dedicated CPT insurance codes for thyroid RFA have been established. This change reflects RFA’s growing acceptance in mainstream practice.
For clinicians considering adopting RFA, it’s important to understand the key RFA equipment and devices involved. In this blog, we’ll describe the main components of an RFA system for thyroid nodules. Continue reading for a review of the clinical evidence supporting this technology.
Overview of RFA Equipment and Devices
An RFA system for thyroid ablation consists of two primary components. The first is a radiofrequency generator, or energy source. The second is a specialized RFA electrode. The electrode is the ablation device that delivers energy into the nodule.
STARmed America provides an integrated solution with its VIVA combo RF Generator. The VIVA is compatible with an array of thyroid-specific electrodes. Additionally, a water pump is used with the electrodes’ internal cooling system. Standard ultrasound imaging is employed for guidance.
We will detail the key radiofrequency ablation equipment from STARmed America below.
VIVA Combo RF Generator
The VIVA combo is a versatile radiofrequency generator that serves as the power source for the ablation procedure. It delivers up to 200 Watts of RF power. This capability enables it to treat nodules of varying sizes and tissue compositions. The VIVA features multiple ablation modes to tailor the energy delivery for different clinical needs.
One notable mode is “Continuance Mode.” During this mode, the generator produces continuous RF output. It will automatically adjust power based on real-time impedance feedback.
Continuance mode makes the VIVA combo generator ideal for the thyroid “moving-shot” technique. This technique is essential for preventing thermal injury or over-treatment.
In essence, the VIVA combo RF Generator is the central piece of RF ablation equipment. It ensures energy is delivered in a safe and precise manner.
star RF Electrode
The star RF Electrode was the first RF electrode introduced to the U.S. market designed specifically for thyroid ablation. This electrode resembles a fine needle and comes in a variety of sizes to accommodate different patient and nodule needs.
The star’s thinner, shorter shaft improves maneuverability and energy control in the delicate neck region. STARmed offers a selection of fixed active tip lengths for additional customization. A shorter tip can be used for small or peri-critical nodules. A longer tip creates a larger ablation zone for bigger nodules.
Another distinctive feature of this RFA device is the scalpel-sharp trocar tip. This sharp tip pierces the thyroid nodule easily without requiring a surgical incision in the skin. The tip and the thin profile make the insertion virtually painless and bloodless. Thus, the star RF device ensures the procedure is as minimally invasive as possible.
VIVA II RF Electrode
The VIVA II RF Electrode is STARmed’s latest innovation in thyroid ablation devices. It was designed to be a cost-effective solution for large nodules and multi-nodule treatments.
The VIVA II features an adjustable active tip that can be set from 5 mm up to 30 mm in 5 mm increments. This means a single VIVA II electrode can achieve both small, precise ablations and treat very large ablation zones. Clinicians simply adjust the exposed tip length during the procedure.
For example, a clinician could ablate the center of a large vascular thyroid nodule using the 15 mm tip exposure. Then, they could retract it to a shorter tip to precisely ablate the periphery of the large nodule. They can accomplish both seamlessly, with the same device. This versatility improves procedural efficiency and eliminates the need for stocking multiple electrode sizes, reducing inventory costs.
Despite its advanced capabilities, the VIVA II’s handle is small and lightweight. Its design ensures a comfortable grip and fine control during delicate maneuvers. STARmed’s engineers also refined the tubing and pump system. Clinicians experience minimal vibration during pumping, aiding in steady needle positioning.
Clinical Evidence Supporting Thyroid Nodule RFA
Radiofrequency ablation for thyroid nodules is supported by a strong and growing body of clinical evidence. Many studies have documented that RFA can achieve substantial nodule shrinkage while maintaining an excellent safety profile.
Most impressively, five-year follow-up data has shown that treated nodules continue to stay involuted. Many patients see around 93 to 95% volume reduction at 5 years post-RFA.
Many of the pioneering studies of thyroid RFA were conducted using STARmed’s RFA systems. In fact, STARmed equipment has been utilized in roughly 80% of all published clinical articles on thyroid RFA. Over 200 peer-reviewed papers support the conclusion that radiofrequency ablation is effective and safe.
As a result, more and more clinicians worldwide are adopting RFA into their practice. The recent establishment of CPT codes and insurance coverage for thyroid nodule ablation in the U.S. further removes barriers. Ultimately, RFA using modern ablation equipment can achieve surgical-like nodule reduction outcomes without surgery.
Experience RFA Equipment from STARmed America
STARmed America can equip you with the tools needed to treat benign thyroid nodules in a minimally invasive way. Learn more about thyroid nodule RFA treatments today.
