In 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

04:03 Navigating Biopsy Experiences

09:28 Exploring Non-Surgical Options

15:10 The Role of Molecular Testing

22:41 The Decision to Undergo NSPFA

31:15 Follow-Up Results and Shrinkage

36:35 Key Takeaways for Patients

46:29 Introduction to the Podcast and Resources

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/

Watch my interview with Dr. Richard Harding on nsPFA:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eG6x0W9CW0

Connect with Dr. Richard Harding:

https://www.azendosurg.com/

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:

👉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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 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%3A31.529Z

Dr. Geraldine Luna - offering RFA in Manila, Philippines:

geluna.ent.md@gmail.com

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:

👉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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 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 Medicine

https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/specialties/endocrinology/endocrine-surgery

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:

👉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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 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/RFA

Follow 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/itsmejenagain

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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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

Support the channel:

PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/itsmejenagain

VENMO👉https://account.venmo.com/u/itsme_jenagain

Affiliate links:

TOUPS AND CO👉https://toupsandco.com/jen

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BON CHARGE👉https://us.boncharge.com/?rfsn=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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Dr. Richard Harding discusses the advancements in thyroid nodule treatment, focusing on two primary techniques: Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Nanosecond Pulsed Field Ablation (NSPFA). He explains the mechanisms, benefits, and patient experiences associated with each method, emphasizing the safety and efficacy of NSPFA, especially in delicate areas near critical structures like the recurrent laryngeal nerve. The discussion also covers patient feedback, ideal candidates for each procedure, and the future of these technologies in mainstream thyroid care.

Dr. Richard Harding's website:

https://www.azendosurg.com/

Dr. Harding's YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@UCK4plFDfpQKeRLV-ykWJ-vA

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Thyroid Nodule Care

01:55 Understanding Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

05:12 Exploring Nanosecond Pulsed Field Ablation (NSPFA)

09:23 Safety and Precision in NSPFA

10:37 Treatment Duration and Patient Experience

17:28 Risks and Side Effects of NSPFA

19:02 Ideal Candidates for NSPFA

22:25 Patient Feedback and Outcomes

29:21 Exploring Treatment Modalities for Thyroid Nodules

31:50 Understanding Nodule Growth and Treatment Challenges

35:06 The Future of NSPFA in Thyroid Care

38:05 Cost and Accessibility of New Treatment Technologies

41:00 Potential for NSPFA in Treating Malignant Lesions

43:40 Advice for Patients with Thyroid Nodules

45:44 Guidance for Clinicians on Adopting New Techniques

48:20 Final Thoughts and Community Impact

55:42 Introduction to the Podcast and Resources

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/itsmejenagain

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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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we have a reversal of roles. Host, Jennifer Holkem shares her journey as a thyroid patient, emphasizing the importance of patient advocacy and education. Interviewed by guest host, Dr. John Russell, they discuss the challenges patients face within the healthcare system, the significance of informed decision-making, and the emotional aspects of navigating treatment options. The conversation highlights the need for trust between patients and healthcare providers, the role of alternative treatments, and the impact of personal experiences on health decisions. Ultimately, the episode aims to empower patients through knowledge and shared experiences.

Dr. Jon Russell's Podcast: Total Thyroid with Jon Russell

https://www.youtube.com/@UClYiVqO6FobblhVsJfzAWpw

Russell Center for Endocrine Health: https://www.russell-center.com/

Follow Dr. Russell on IG: https://www.instagram.com/jonrussellmd/?hl=en

Chapters

00:00 Flipping the Script: Patient Perspectives

01:40 The Importance of Advocacy and Education

05:17 Navigating Trust Issues in Healthcare

08:59 The Impact of Past Experiences on Patient Choices

12:25 Finding Alternatives: The Journey to RFA

16:19 Building Community and Support Among Patients

18:34 The Fine Line of Self-Advocacy in Healthcare

20:28 Navigating Treatment Options for Thyroid Nodules

25:36 Personal Experiences with Thyroid Health

31:18 The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Thyroid Care

35:55 Building Trust Between Patients and Physicians

41:17 The Humanity of Physicians and Patient Advocacy

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/itsmejenagain

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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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Toxic Thyroid Nodules: RFA vs. RAI—What’s the Difference?

In this episode, endocrinologist Dr. Ian Orozco joins Jennifer Holkem to break down the two main non-surgical treatment options for toxic thyroid nodules: radioactive iodine (RAI) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Learn how these treatments work, who they’re right for, and what every patient needs to know before choosing a path. If you've been told surgery is your only option, this episode is a must-watch.

🔹 What is a toxic thyroid nodule?

🔹 RFA vs. RAI: key differences, benefits, and risks

🔹 How to preserve thyroid function and avoid unnecessary surgery

🔹 Real-world considerations: lifestyle, fertility, and recovery

🔹 Why the experience of your provider matters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Thyroid Nodules and Treatments

03:00 Understanding Toxic Thyroid Nodules

06:03 Treatment Options: RFA vs RAI

09:13 Radioactive Iodine: Administration and Effects

12:09 Patient Considerations for Radioactive Iodine

14:56 Radiofrequency Ablation: A New Approach

17:50 Comparing RFA and Surgery

20:59 Recovery and Lifestyle Considerations

32:47 Effectiveness of RFA vs. Traditional Treatments

38:00 Nuances in Treatment for Toxic Nodules

43:44 Understanding RFA Risks and Misconceptions

46:56 The Role of RFA in Modern Treatment

52:50 Future Directions for RFA and Thyroid Treatments

Learn more about Dr. Ian Orozco:

https://ianorozcomd.com/

Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Cambridge Interventional:

https://www.cambridgeinterventional.com/

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/itsmejenagain

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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/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.