Early Adoption of Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation in Canada: Physician Experiences, Barriers, and Facilitators to Implementation.
Publication/Presentation Date
1-1-2026
Abstract
IMPORTANCE: Thyroid radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery for thyroid nodules. Despite strong international evidence, thyroid RFA was only approved by Health Canada in April 2023. Understanding the experiences of early adopters can inform the broader adoption of RFA in Canada and other healthcare systems.
OBJECTIVE: To describe the implementation experiences of early adopters of thyroid RFA in Canada and identify barriers and facilitators to adoption.
DESIGN: Multiple methods.
SETTING: All 8 listed RFA facilities in Canada.
PARTICIPANTS: Physicians performing thyroid RFA (n = 9).
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Survey and semi-structured interviews.
RESULTS: Most participants reported low RFA volumes (median [IQR] = 2.0 [0.6-3.0] cases/month) and short wait times (1.5 [1.0-2.0] months). For thyroid surgery on similar nodules, participants performed higher volumes (7.5 [6.0-10.2] cases/month,
CONCLUSIONS: Thyroid RFA adoption in Canada is in its infancy, characterized by low procedural volumes, few providers, and geographical disparities. Early adopters reported positive experiences with RFA. However, inconsistent funding models, billing codes, and policy frameworks have resulted in inequitable access for patients.
RELEVANCE: Many healthcare systems are in the early stages of RFA adoption, similar to Canada. This study identifies key experiences, barriers, and facilitators applicable to physicians, leaders, and policymakers globally who are interested in adopting RFA.
Volume
55
First Page
19160216261451820
Last Page
19160216261451820
ISSN
1916-0216
Published In/Presented At
Gao, H., Liu, D., Levy, B. B., Shapiro, J., Higgins, K. M., Khalil, D. E., Cottrill, E. E., Poon, C., Kamalraj, P., Philteos, J., & Eskander, A. (2026). Early Adoption of Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation in Canada: Physician Experiences, Barriers, and Facilitators to Implementation. Journal of otolaryngology - head & neck surgery = Le Journal d'oto-rhino-laryngologie et de chirurgie cervico-faciale, 55, 19160216261451820. https://doi.org/10.1177/19160216261451820
Disciplines
Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
PubMedID
42316949
Department(s)
Administration and Leadership
Document Type
Article