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Save Your Thyroid with Jennifer Holkem
Astra's Story: How nsPFA Shrinks Thyroid Nodules Without Surgery!
In this conversation, Astra Mathis shares her personal journey with thyroid nodules and her experience with nanosecond pulsed field ablation (nsPFA). The discussion covers the symptoms, diagnosis, and the decision-making process for choosing non-surgical options over traditional thyroidectomy. Astra details the procedure itself, her recovery, and the significant reduction in her nodule size, emphasizing the benefits of nsPFA. The conversation concludes with Astra offering advice to others considering similar treatments and reflecting on her overall experience.
Chapters
00:00 Astra's Thyroid Journey Begins
03:52 Symptoms and Diagnosis
06:34 Exploring Treatment Options
09:24 Choosing Non-Surgical Procedures
11:58 The NSPFA Procedure Explained
14:32 Patient Experience During NSPFA
16:52 Post-Procedure Reflections
18:41 Navigating Recovery After RFA Procedures
21:31 Understanding Nodule Reduction and Patient Experiences
24:56 Follow-Up Appointments and Long-Term Monitoring
27:11 Recommendations for Potential Patients
29:05 The Interconnectedness of Thyroid and Hormonal Health
31:02 Surprises and Insights from the Procedure
34:45 Final Thoughts and Future Considerations
35:24 Navigating Thyroid Health and Community Support
Watch my interview with Dr. Ralph Tufano on nsPFA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihkp3tmLqXI
Connect with Dr. Ralph P. Tufano:
https://firstphysiciansgroup.com/doctors/tufano-ralph-p-md/
Learn more about nsPFA:
www.pulsebiosciences.com/patients
Disclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.
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Resources:
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👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/
👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical
👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/
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110. RFA for Thyroid Cancer? Inside Taiwan's Advanced Techniques | Dr. Chan Jung Chang
38:15||Season 6, Ep. 110The Future of Thyroid Treatment: Advanced RFA, Microcarcinoma, and Taiwan's "One-Stop Shop" Model 🇹🇼This episode of Save Your Thyroid unveils the groundbreaking world of Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). Host Jennifer Holkem speaks with Dr. Chan Jung Chang, an expert Otolaryngologist from Taiwan, about the future of non-surgical thyroid treatment for both thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma.Dr. Chang details why RFA is so widely preferred in Taiwan—driven by a cultural desire for no scarring—and how their streamlined patient journey (the "one-stop shop" model) allows patients to receive comprehensive diagnosis and treatment in just two weeks.Learn about the advanced techniques crucial for maximizing RFA safety and success: the use of Hydrodissection (enhanced with hyaluronic acid) to protect the vocal cord nerve, and Arterial Ablation to prevent tumor regrowth. Discover the criteria for considering this non-invasive alternative for cancer, why there is no strict size ceiling for RFA, and the importance of consistent long-term follow-up care.Tune in to discover how patient-centered innovation is preserving the thyroid gland and revolutionizing treatment options.Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Thyroid Health Innovations04:16 Cultural Perspectives on Thyroid Treatment08:36 Streamlined Patient Journey in Taiwan (The "One-Stop Shop")13:46 Complex Cases and Hydrodissection Techniques24:39 Advanced Techniques in RFA and Patient Concerns30:05 Patient Experiences with RFA Procedures35:00 Criteria for Treating Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma39:51 Follow-Up Protocols After RFA Treatment44:45 The Future of RFA in Thyroid Cancer Treatment🔔 SUBSCRIBE to Save Your Thyroid with Jen for more patient advocacy and expert interviews!Disclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by Jennifer Holkem or "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/#ThyroidRFA #ThyroidCancer #NonSurgicalTreatment #ThyroidNodules #PapillaryMicrocarcinoma #Hydrodissection #ArterialAblation #SaveYourThyroid #ThyroidHealth #PatientAdvocacy #DrChanJungChang
109. Thyroid Nodules: RFA vs. Surgery (All the Details) | Dr. Wolfe
56:25||Season 6, Ep. 109What are the real risks of thyroid surgery? A top otolaryngologist (ENT) surgeon, Dr. Michael J. Wolfe, joins me to discuss how to protect your voice and parathyroid glands—and when non-surgical Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a better option.In this episode, Dr. Michael J. Wolfe explains the crucial role ENTs play in thyroid care due to their deep expertise in neck anatomy. We explore the full diagnostic process for thyroid nodules, what your biopsy results really mean, and have a candid discussion comparing traditional thyroid surgery to the minimally invasive alternative, RFA.Dr. Wolfe emphasizes the importance of patient empowerment and making informed decisions about your thyroid health.In this episode, we cover:👉The "Big Two" risks of thyroid surgery: protecting your voice and your parathyroid glands👉An ENT's expert view on the thyroid diagnostic process (imaging, biopsies)👉Understanding thyroid cancer diagnoses to help alleviate anxiety👉When is surgery necessary vs. when is RFA a good alternative?👉The importance of patient advocacy, education, and getting a second opinion👉Why access to RFA is still limited and may require travel🔔 Subscribe for more expert interviews and patient-centered thyroid education. 💬 What was your biggest takeaway from this discussion? Let us know in the comments below!GUEST INFORMATION:Dr. Michael J. Wolfe: https://proliancesurgeons.com/doctor/michael-j-wolfe-md-facs/Disclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by Jennifer Holkem or "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/Hashtags:#thyroidhealth #thyroidnodules #RFA #thyroidsurgery #radiofrequencyablation #ENT #otolaryngology #thyroidcancer #patientadvocacy #patienteducation #saveyourthyroidrfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ff Resources: 👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/ 👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/ 👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical 👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/ Hashtags: #thyroidhealth #thyroidnodules #RFA #thyroidsurgery #radiofrequencyablation #ENT #otolaryngology #thyroidcancer #patientadvocacy #patienteducation #saveyourthyroid
108. Is Insulin Resistance Causing Your Thyroid Nodules? (A Non-Surgical Fix)
53:05||Season 6, Ep. 108What's the hidden link between insulin resistance and thyroid nodules? Top endocrinologist Dr. Ahmet Ergin (@SugarMDs) joins me for an enlightening conversation about holistic thyroid health.In this powerful discussion, Dr. Ergin shares how integrative endocrinology, which blends traditional methods with functional medicine, is key to managing thyroid disorders. We explore the critical role of patient education and how lifestyle changes in diet, sleep, and exercise can profoundly impact your health.Dr. Ergin gives his expert take on:How insulin resistance is directly linked to the development of thyroid nodules.The pros and cons of the carnivore diet for thyroid patients.Beneficial supplements for thyroid function, including Vitamin A, Zinc, and Omega-3s.Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): an innovative, non-surgical option for treating thyroid nodules.Why it's crucial for patients to be proactive about monitoring and treating nodules.Updates on insurance coverage for RFA.If you are managing a thyroid condition or simply want to take charge of your health, this episode is a must-watch!🔔 Subscribe for more expert interviews and patient-centered thyroid education. 💬 What was your biggest takeaway? Let us know in the comments below!Dr. Ahmet Ergin's links:tcendo.com  facebook.com/people/Diabetes-Thyroid-Hormone-Center-Of-The-Treasure-Coast/61571063654043/#youtube.com/@SugarMDssugarmds.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Thyroid Health and Patient-Centered Care02:07 Integrative Approach to Thyroid Treatment04:32 The Role of YouTube in Patient Education06:54 Link Between Insulin Resistance and Thyroid Nodules09:38 Prioritizing Treatment for Thyroid Nodules12:10 Lifestyle Changes for Thyroid and Metabolic Health14:54 Supplements for Thyroid Disorders17:31 Exploring the Carnivore Diet and Its Effects20:04 Understanding the Microbiome and Dietary Impacts27:09 Understanding T3 and Its Importance28:16 Non-Surgical Treatments for Thyroid Nodules31:08 Patient Experiences with RFA34:36 Identifying Ideal Candidates for RFA37:30 Complex Cases and RFA40:06 The RFA Procedure Experience42:32 Expected Results from RFA46:20 Navigating Costs and Insurance for RFA48:08 Key Takeaways for Patients50:16 Navigating Thyroid Health and Community SupportDisclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by Jennifer Holkem or "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/Hashtags:#thyroidhealth #thyroidnodules #insulinresistance #RFA #drahmetErgin #sugarmds #integrativeendocrinology #patienteducation #radiofrequencyablation #lifestylechanges
107. BEYOND SURGERY: The PAST, PRESENT, and FUTURE of treating thyroid nodules
01:17:45||Season 6, Ep. 107In this episode of Save Your Thyroid, Jennifer Holkem discusses the latest advancements in thyroid care, focusing on thyroid nodules and the innovative non-surgical treatment known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Joined by Dr. John Interlandi, they explore the history of thyroid treatment, the impact of nodular thyroid disease, and the benefits of RFA as a safe and effective alternative to surgery. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding thyroid health, the evolution of treatment options, and the need for ongoing monitoring of thyroid conditions. In this conversation, John Interlandi and Jen discuss the intricacies of Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for thyroid nodules, including its effectiveness, patient experiences, follow-up care, and the implications of insurance coverage. They explore the evolving landscape of thyroid treatment, emphasizing the importance of continuity of care and the potential future of RFA as a non-surgical intervention.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Thyroid Health and RFA00:30 Understanding Thyroid Nodules and Misconceptions03:04 Historical Context of Thyroid Treatments05:49 Advancements in Thyroid Diagnostics08:25 Radiofrequency Ablation: The New Frontier11:07 The Procedure: How RFA Works13:49 Benefits of RFA Over Traditional Surgery16:41 Patient Experience and Recovery19:15 Integrating RFA into Thyroid Disease Management22:50 The Expertise Barrier in Thyroid Surgery25:34 Disruptive Technology in Healthcare28:16 Patient Experiences with RFA33:02 Thyroid Hormone Dependency Post-Surgery36:50 Chronic Nature of Nodular Thyroid Disease44:18 Understanding Post-RFA Ultrasound Changes53:29 Understanding T4 and T3: The Thyroid Connection54:43 Candidacy for RFA: Who Qualifies?58:00 Identifying Good Candidates for RFA59:18 The RFA Procedure: What to Expect01:01:37 Insurance and Financial Aspects of RFA01:05:40 Quality of Life and Patient Experience01:11:17 The Future of RFA in Thyroid Treatment01:18:59 Introduction to the Podcast and ResourcesWatch Dr. Interlandi and Dr. Leal perform thyroid RFA:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jp2kQBCkpsw👉Dr. Leal and Dr. Interlandi’s practice: New Horizon Diabetes Clinic👉Website: https://www.newhorizondiabetes.com/ 👉Follow New Horizon Diabetes Clinic on social media: https://www.facebook.com/NewHorizonDiabetesClinic Disclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/Hashtags:#advocate #saveyourthyroid #thyroidnodule #thyroidsurgery #nonsurgical #thermalablation #thyroidectomy #hemithyroidectomy #patient #advocate #itsmejenagain #thyroidrfa #endocrinology #Nashville #SmyrnaTN #Tennessee #TN #NewHorizonDiabetesClinic#NewHorizonDiabetesClinic
106. What is nPULSE Ablation REALLY Like? Natalie's Honest Experience
48:05||Season 6, Ep. 106In this episode of Save Your Thyroid, host Jennifer Holkem interviews Natalie Suarez, who shares her personal journey with thyroid nodules and her experience with nanosecond pulse field ablation (nsPFA). The conversation covers Natalie's initial diagnosis, the challenges of navigating medical opinions and biopsies, and her decision to pursue nsPFA as a non-surgical treatment option. Natalie details her procedure day experience, recovery, and the positive outcomes she has experienced since the treatment. The episode emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy, research, and the potential for non-surgical alternatives to thyroid surgery.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey04:03 Navigating Biopsy Experiences09:28 Exploring Non-Surgical Options15:10 The Role of Molecular Testing22:41 The Decision to Undergo NSPFA31:15 Follow-Up Results and Shrinkage36:35 Key Takeaways for Patients46:29 Introduction to the Podcast and ResourcesWatch my interview with Dr. Ralph Tufano on nsPFAhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihkp3tmLqXIConnect with Dr. Ralph P. Tufano:https://firstphysiciansgroup.com/doctors/tufano-ralph-p-md/Watch my interview with Dr. Richard Harding on nsPFA:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eG6x0W9CW0Connect with Dr. Richard Harding: https://www.azendosurg.com/Learn more about nsPFA:www.pulsebiosciences.com/patientsDisclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/
105. A Surgeon's "Wake-Up Call": Dr. Merry Sebelik on the RFA Paradigm Shift
57:12||Season 6, Ep. 105In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Merry Sebelik, a pioneer in the field of thyroid care, discusses the transformative impact of Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) on thyroid treatment. She shares her journey as a surgeon and educator, emphasizing the importance of ultrasound in thyroid surgery and the global health implications of RFA. The discussion covers the advantages of RFA over traditional surgery, the challenges of implementing this technology in various healthcare settings, and the critical role of insurance coverage in patient access. Dr. Sebelik also explores the future of RFA in treating low-risk thyroid cancers and the importance of balancing technological advancements with compassionate patient care.Contact Dr. Merry Sebelik:👉https://med.emory.edu/directory/profile/?u=MSEBELI👉https://providers.emoryhealthcare.org/provider/merry-e-sebelik/778260?unified=sebelik&sort=availability_density_best%2Cnetworks%2Crelevance&tt=fe00cf63-d4be-4ecd-a416-4861e4284c66&ut=e7d9873f-3170-46d8-af9d-1500ab168303×tamp=2020-07-21T16%3A58%3A31.529ZDr. Geraldine Luna - offering RFA in Manila, Philippines:geluna.ent.md@gmail.comDisclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/
104. Thyroid Care WITHOUT Surgery: RFA and the Future of Thyroid Cancer Treatment
59:10||Season 6, Ep. 104In this episode, Dr. James Suliburk and Dr. Ray Grogan discuss the advancements in thyroid care, particularly focusing on radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid cancer. They explore the evolution of RFA in the US, the safety concerns surrounding the procedure, and the importance of patient-centered care and shared decision-making. The conversation also delves into the criteria for RFA candidacy, the role of molecular testing in thyroid care, and the challenges of conducting randomized controlled trials in this field. The episode concludes with insights into the future of non-surgical thyroid care and the importance of finding experienced clinical teams for optimal patient outcomes.Contact Dr. Grogan and Dr. Suliburk at Baylor Medicinehttps://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/specialties/endocrinology/endocrine-surgeryDisclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/
103. The Thyroid Nodule Treatment Doctors Aren't Telling You About | Murfreesboro, TN ENT
47:46||Season 6, Ep. 103In this episode, Dr. Britni Caplin, an expert ENT surgeon, discusses Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), a minimally invasive procedure to shrink thyroid nodules and avoid surgery. Based in Murfreesboro, TN, Dr. Caplin discusses her expertise in thyroid care, focusing on the innovative non-surgical options for thyroid nodules like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Ethanol Ablation. She emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care, collaboration between ENT and endocrinology, and the challenges of insurance coverage for these procedures. Dr. Caplin shares insights on how she helps patients choose between RFA and surgery, the significance of her ACTPS designation, and the integrated care model that enhances patient experience.Visit Dr. Caplin's practice website:https://www.mmclinic.com/RFAFollow MMC on Instagram:@murfreesboromedicalclinic Disclaimer: None of the statements made in this or any other video by "Its me Jen again" should be considered medical advice.Support the channel:PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagainVENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagainAffiliate links:TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jenRIVERSIDE👉https://www.riverside.fm/?via=itsmejenagainVAN MAN👉https://vanman.shop/?ref=itsmejenagainBON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=7843863.50b9fa&shpxid=4137e8a5-8199-46cb-b71c-0f86d29924ffResources:👉Podcast: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/👉Patient site: https://www.saveyourthyroid.org/👉Private FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroidnonsurgical👉Patient Navigation: https://www.saveyourthyroidwithjen.com/p/patient-navigation-services/