This month we undertook the UKs first thyroid artery embolisation (TAE) as part of the TArGET study to assess this new minimally invasive option to treat large thyroid nodules. This provides a non-surgical option for patients who are not candidates for, or who wish to avoid traditional surgery or radioactive iodine. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, as an outpatient, allowing patients to go home the same day. Recovery is quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within one to two days.
The first procedure was successfully undertaken this month in the University Department of Radiology at the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust. The research team is being led by Dr Farhan Ahmad, in collaboration with Dr Amelia Hollywood at University of Reading, Dr Yan Li at Oxford University Hospital and Dr Theingi Aung, Mr Sid Nagala and Prof. Mark Little at Royal Berkshire Hospital.