RFA Doctor Directory

11/07/2025

Thyroid cancer disappears without surgery! [true case studies] - https://mailchi.mp/rfamd/thyroid-cancer-removal-without-surgery
Learn more at www.rfamd.com

06/07/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdWL2SaBK0g

This is your chance to ask America's leading thyroid ablation doctor any questions about avoiding surgery and preserving your quality of life. Topics will in...

06/02/2025

MITT 2025 Day 1: Advancing Thyroid Ablation Training & Professional Networking

The first day of MITT 2025 at the Palais de l’Europe in Menton, France, brought together specialists for hands-on training in thyroid ablation techniques and professional networking.

🔹 Hands-on workshops covered MWA, RFA, Laser Ablation, and Thermal Ablation, along with a dedicated ultrasound session.
🔹 Insights from the Scientific Committee:
🗣 “MITT 2025 is where knowledge meets innovation. This event is transforming thyroid ablation into a standard of care.” – Dr. Giovanni Mauri
🗣 “Every session reaffirms our commitment to excellence. By engaging in hands-on workshops, we are shaping the future of thyroid care.” – Dr. Stefano Spiezia

Day 2 will expand on these discussions with more training and collaboration.

Check out the highlights from Day 1 below!
rfamd.com/news.

01/10/2024

Medical content is usually dull and dry, loaded with jargon and shot in sterile settings.
With this campaign, we are using authentic vlog-style to best reach patients — changing medical-related content for the better!

Collaboration with: Emad Kandil, Tulane University, Baird Medical, Doctor Thyroid, and Philip James

Dr. Emad Kandil, one of the leading thyroid surgeons in the U.S. and a pioneer in non-surgical thyroid cancer treatment, is featured in this video discussing...

26/04/2024

Pioneered in Italy 25 years ago and recently popularized by advancements from South Korea, this technique uses thermal energy to destroy problematic thyroid tissue, thus preserving the gland and enhancing patient quality of life. Dr. Giovanni Mauri, a top interventional radiologist from Milan, shares insights into the procedure’s rising success and the challenges it faces.

As thyroid ablation becomes more common, educational initiatives are expanding globally to train practitioners. Despite the benefits, the rapid adoption has brought significant challenges, including a steep learning curve and the need for precise ultrasound guidance during the procedure. Innovations continue with new ablation technologies like microwave and non-thermal methods promising fewer risks and broader applicability.

However, the enthusiasm for quick adoption risks overlooking the need for thorough practitioner training and patient selection. Dr. Mauri emphasizes the importance of ongoing education and regulatory frameworks to safeguard patient outcomes. As the medical community navigates these issues, thyroid ablation stands at the forefront of significant but complex advancements in thyroid treatment.

12/04/2024

An interview for the RFAMD with host, Philip James
www.rfamd.com

In a world where misinformation can spread as rapidly as legitimate data, discerning the truth becomes a critical skill—especially when it comes to our health. Dr. John Whyte, Chief Medical Officer at WebMD, shares his insights on how patients can navigate the sea of health information online to find trustworthy resources and take control of their personal health.

The Power of Information

Dr. Whyte begins by emphasizing the importance of quality information, which he argues is more accessible than ever thanks to digital advancements. "Better information leads to better health," he says, echoing WebMD's philosophy. In the era of the internet, the adage "knowledge is power" holds particularly true in the realm of healthcare. Quality information equips patients with the power to make informed decisions about their health, turning them into advocates for their own care.

Sorting Fact from Fiction

The challenge for many, Dr. Whyte notes, is the overwhelming amount of information available—an issue compounded by the rapid pace at which medical knowledge evolves. "Medical knowledge doubles about every 73 days," he states, highlighting the difficulty for even the most diligent professionals to stay current. In this environment, patients must become their own advocates and learn to differentiate between reliable information and misleading data.

Whyte is concerned about the rise of misinformation, which can equate unverified opinions with scientific evidence. He stresses the importance of scrutinizing health information with the same rigor one might apply to financial decisions. This means considering the source's credibility, transparency, and the replicability of the data. Reliable sites like WebMD help users navigate this by providing clearly dated and expert-reviewed content.

The Role of Technology in Personal Health

Dr. Whyte is a strong proponent of using technology to enhance personal health management. From wearables that track physical activity to apps that monitor sleep and dietary habits, digital tools offer a wealth of personalized data that can lead to healthier lifestyle choices. He shares his personal experiences with biohacking gadgets like Lumen, a device that measures metabolic fuel use, to illustrate how specific tools can help tailor health strategies to individual needs.

DIY Health: A Blessing and a Curse

The abundance of health-related information and tools can empower patients but also overwhelm them. Dr. Whyte calls this the "DIY approach" to health, where individuals take on the role of managing their own care without sufficient medical guidance. While he champions the use of technology, he cautions against its pitfalls, particularly when individuals rely too heavily on unvalidated sources or misinterpret the data.

The Future of Health Information

Looking ahead, Dr. Whyte is optimistic about the potential of AI and machine learning to transform healthcare. He envisions a future where AI can provide empathetic, accurate support that complements traditional healthcare services. However, he acknowledges that the technology is not yet perfect and emphasizes the importance of continuing to refine these tools to avoid the spread of "hallucinated" misinformation.

Empowering Patients Through Trustworthy Resources

In conclusion, Dr. John Whyte advocates for a balanced approach to digital health information. By critically evaluating sources, utilizing technological tools judiciously, and always seeking professional advice when necessary, patients can take charge of their health confidently and safely. In an age where information is both a resource and a hazard, being a discerning consumer is perhaps the most important skill of all.

Dr. John Whyte is the Chief Medical Officer at WebMD, where he leverages his extensive background in both medicine and public health policy to enhance healthcare information accessibility and accuracy for the public. A passionate advocate for consumer-centered healthcare, Dr. Whyte is dedicated to empowering individuals with reliable and actionable health data. With a medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and a master's degree in public health from Harvard, he has served in leadership roles at the Food and Drug Administration and Discovery Channel Global Education Partnership, among others. Dr. Whyte is a prolific author and speaker, focused on improving patient education and health outcomes through innovation in digital health and media.

08/04/2024

“I didn’t realize the impact of a great GMB profile until RFAMD transformed my online presence, resulting in a 50% increase in patient inquiries within the first three months.” Dr. Giovanni Mauri 🇮🇹 (.annimauri )

Here are seven risks you face with an unoptimized GMB profile (two of them might surprise you)

1. Lost Visibility: Missed opportunities to appear in search results right when potential patients are looking.

2. Damaged First Impressions: When your profile misrepresents your practice, it can permanently turn potential patients away.

3. Eroded Trust: Unanswered negative reviews and outdated information might be undermining patient confidence in your care.

4. Operational Confusions: Incorrect hours or contact details could lead to frustrated patients and missed appointments.

5. Competitive Disadvantage: A neglected profile hands the advantage to competitors who are more digitally savvy.

6. A disadvantage when trying to attract office staff.

7. Your online reputation influences the perception of peers, manufactures, vendors, patients (new and existing) and associations.

Discover how a well-managed GMB profile by RFAMD can safeguard your practice.
Don’t let your practice be compromised.

Contact us for a free consultation:
philip@rfamd.com

04/04/2024

More info: www.rfamd.com

In this RFAMD podcast episode, hosted by Philip James, Dr. Raymond Yung from New York City discusses the nuances of using Microwave Ablation (MWA) versus Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for treating thyroid nodules. Dr. Yung, an experienced surgeon specializing in ear, nose, and throat surgery, has shifted some focus towards less invasive treatments for thyroid nodules, moving from exclusively surgical interventions to incorporating ablative techniques.

Dr. Yung initially began using RFA due to its familiarity in the U.S. and parts of Europe, contrasting with MWA's popularity in Asia. Over time, he recognized the benefits of MWA, especially for specific patient needs and nodule characteristics. MWA, in his experience, is faster and causes less discomfort than RFA, making it preferable for treating larger nodules due to its efficiency in covering more tissue area. However, RFA offers more precision, making it suitable for nodules located near sensitive structures.

Patient selection plays a crucial role in deciding between MWA and RFA. Factors such as the patient's tolerance for discomfort, the size of the nodule, and its proximity to critical anatomy influence Dr. Yung's choice. He also highlights the importance of the practitioner's skill in ultrasound, as it is integral to performing these procedures effectively.

Despite being relatively new in the U.S., ablative treatments for thyroid nodules are gaining traction, offering patients non-surgical options that preserve thyroid function and avoid the complications of surgery. Dr. Yung's approach is patient-centered, providing multiple treatment options, including observation, surgical removal, RFA, or MWA.

Dr. Yung emphasizes the need for careful patient selection and practitioner training, acknowledging the risks associated with introducing needles into sensitive neck areas during ablation. He advocates for thorough preparation and education for those adopting these procedures, to ensure safety and effectiveness.

The podcast concludes with Dr. Yung mentioning his book, "Say No to Thyroid Surgery," which serves as a resource for those exploring non-surgical treatments for thyroid issues. His work reflects a significant shift towards less invasive, patient-friendly approaches to treating thyroid nodules, aligning with broader trends in medicine towards minimizing the impact of treatment on patients' lives.

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Philip James is a renowned podcast host, known for his engaging and informative discussions on the RFAMD podcast, which delves into the latest trends, research, and innovations in medical treatments. With a keen interest in advancing healthcare knowledge among both professionals and the general public, Philip has established himself as a respected voice in the medical community. His interviews provide deep insights into a variety of medical specialties, with a particular focus on minimally invasive procedures and groundbreaking treatment options.
Philip's approach to hosting is characterized by his ability to ask poignant questions, making complex medical topics accessible and understandable to his audience. He brings together leading experts to share their experiences and knowledge on the forefront of medical science, offering listeners valuable perspectives on treatment choices and healthcare advancements.
Beyond his role as a podcast host, Philip is passionate about patient advocacy and education. He emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making in healthcare, encouraging his listeners to explore all available options for treatment. Philip's work on the RFAMD podcast is a reflection of his commitment to bridging the gap between medical professionals and patients, fostering a well-informed community ready to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare.

16/03/2024

Durante una entrevista detallada en el podcast RFAMD, el anfitrión Philip James conversó con la Dra. Ana Voogd, una distinguida cirujana de cabeza y cuello con más de 30 años de experiencia, sobre la integración gradual de la terapia de ablación tiroidea en el panorama médico de Argentina.
www.rfamd.com

La Dra. Voogd, que dirige el departamento de cirugía de cabeza y cuello en uno de los hospitales más grandes de Argentina, proporcionó perspectivas valiosas sobre el enfoque evolutivo del país hacia el cuidado del tiroides.

Un Paso Hacia Procedimientos Menos Invasivos

La Dra. Voogd explicó la ablación tiroidea en términos sencillos, destacando su carácter no quirúrgico y percutáneo, que utiliza agujas para crear necrosis dentro de los nódulos tiroideos. Este proceso detiene efectivamente el crecimiento del nódulo y mejora los síntomas sin necesidad de cirugía, marcando un avance significativo en la mejora de la calidad de vida del paciente y en la preservación de la glándula tiroidea.

A la Par con los Estándares Internacionales

La adopción de técnicas de ablación tiroidea en Argentina, que han sido utilizadas durante décadas en países como Corea del Sur e Italia, es relativamente reciente. La Dra. Voogd señaló la llegada de equipos especializados para la ablación por radiofrecuencia hace dos o tres años como un punto de inflexión, lo que permitió a los proveedores de atención médica locales ofrecer este tratamiento. Aunque Argentina está poniéndose al día, la introducción de esta tecnología ha sido recibida con entusiasmo tanto por los profesionales médicos como por los pacientes, ofreciendo una opción no quirúrgica para tratar los nódulos tiroideos y, en algunos casos, el cáncer de tiroides.

Desafíos de Acceso y Asequibilidad

La conversación con la Dra. Voogd también abordó los desafíos de acceder a la ablación tiroidea en Argentina, donde la disponibilidad del procedimiento varía significativamente entre los sectores de salud pública y privada. En el sector público, la ablación tiroidea no es ampliamente aceptada, mientras que el sector privado ofrece más flexibilidad pero con costos variables. La Dra. Voogd señaló que, aunque el costo del procedimiento está influenciado por el precio de consumibles como las agujas, sigue siendo comparable a los precios internacionales, haciéndolo accesible para aquellos con seguro adecuado o los medios financieros para la atención privada.

Resultados Alentadores y Alta Satisfacción del Paciente

La Dra. Voogd compartió sus experiencias positivas con la ablación tiroidea, mencionando el tratamiento de más de 100 nódulos con reducciones notables en tamaño y alivio de síntomas. Estos resultados sugieren que la ablación tiroidea podría cambiar significativamente el paisaje del tratamiento tiroideo en Argentina, ofreciendo una alternativa efectiva a la cirugía convencional.

Una Perspectiva Más Amplia y Perspectivas Futuras

Al concluir la entrevista, la Dra. Voogd enfatizó la importancia de crear conciencia sobre la ablación tiroidea entre los pacientes con nódulos tiroideos. Animó a los pacientes a considerar esta opción de tratamiento innovadora, que permite un rápido retorno a las actividades diarias, sin cicatrices visibles y con mínimas molestias post-procedimiento. Destacó un caso particularmente memorable de un paciente que experimentó una mejora significativa después de años de sufrimiento, ilustrando el profundo impacto de la ablación tiroidea en la vida de los individuos.

En resumen, las perspectivas compartidas por la Dra. Ana Voogd en el podcast RFAMD iluminan el abrazo gradual de Argentina hacia la ablación tiroidea como opción de tratamiento. Este cambio hacia métodos menos invasivos representa un desarrollo significativo en el sistema de atención médica del país, ofreciendo resultados de tratamiento mejorados y mejorando la calidad de vida para los pacientes con condiciones tiroideas.

16/01/2024

A conference that puts social purpose first: In partnership with doctors from 8 countries, two hospitals, and the Thailand Ministry of Health.

At MedTech Asia, 25 patients will receive thyroid ablation for no financial cost — who otherwise could not afford the treatment 💵 saving their thyroid and preserving their quality of life.
www.medtechasia.org

15/01/2024

Great news from Ecuador and Dr. Cristhian Garcia C along with Paola Solís Pazmiño, Eddy P. Lincango, Andrea Cho, Luis Figueroa, Oscar Ponce, Juan P. Brito & Erivelto Volpi, M.D. Ph.D.

10/01/2024

www.rfamd.com
Thyroid Ablation: A Game-Changer in Preserving Quality of Life

Thyroid disorders, particularly those requiring surgery, have long been a concern for patients due to the potential lifelong dependence on medication and associated quality of life changes. However, a significant shift is occurring in thyroid treatment with the advent of thyroid ablation, a technique that is rapidly gaining preference among patients and physicians alike.

The Rise of Thyroid Ablation

In a recent podcast interview on RFAMD, Dr. Erivelto Volpi, a renowned head and neck surgeon from São Paulo, Brazil, shared his extensive experience in thyroid ablation. Dr. Volpi, who has performed around 8,000 thyroid surgeries and 400 thyroid ablations in over 35 years, notes the growing trend towards thyroid ablation. He attributes this shift primarily to the preservation of the patient's quality of life, a crucial factor often overshadowed in traditional surgical approaches.

Why Patients Prefer Thyroid Ablation

Dr. Volpi explains that most patients seeking thyroid ablation do so not just to avoid surgery but to maintain their quality of life. They fear the changes that lifelong medication post-surgery might bring, having seen friends or family struggle with hormone replacements. Thyroid ablation, which involves radiofrequency or microwave treatment, offers an effective alternative. It shrinks benign thyroid nodules and even treats initial cancers, preserving thyroid function and thus the patient's pre-existing quality of life.

The Global Perspective and Acceptance

Thyroid ablation is not just a localized phenomenon. Dr. Volpi highlights its rapid adoption worldwide, with countries like South Korea, Brazil, Italy, France, Spain, Turkey, and Egypt leading in this practice. This global acceptance is partly due to patient advocacy and the internet, which have empowered patients to seek the best treatment options, often traveling across borders to access this care.

The Procedure and Its Benefits

Compared to conventional surgery, thyroid ablation is minimally invasive, with fewer complications like voice changes. Recovery is swift, often within 24 to 48 hours, significantly quicker than traditional surgery. This aspect further reinforces its preference among patients.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its advantages, thyroid ablation faces skepticism from some in the medical community, mainly due to its relative novelty. However, Dr. Volpi remains optimistic, citing the growing interest and training among doctors in this technique. He foresees a future where thyroid ablation becomes a common practice, expanding its indications and accessibility.

In conclusion, thyroid ablation represents a significant advancement in treating thyroid disorders. Its focus on preserving the patient's quality of life, along with its effectiveness and minimal invasiveness, positions it as a preferred alternative to traditional thyroid surgery. As this technique continues to gain acceptance and evolve, it stands to significantly impact how thyroid conditions are treated globally.