Clinical Research Directory

Multimodal Assessment of Malignancy in Atypia of Undetermined Significance in Thyroid Nodules Using Ultrasound and Cytology Whole-Slide Images

The prospective study aim to develop a multimodal deep learning model that integrates ultrasound images and cytological whole-slide images for more accurate malignant risk prediction of Bethesda III thyroid nodules.

Efficacy and Safety of Prunella Oral Liquid in the Treatment of Thyroid Nodules

A multicenter, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Prunella oral liquid in patients with benign thyroid nodules, which belongs to the post-marketing reevaluation clinical study. In this study, 234 subjects will be enrolled by competitive enrollment at several research centers across China. The main inclusion criteria are: ① Thyroid ultrasound examination found thyroid nodules, can be accompanied by goiter, and the nodules meet the following conditions: 1) There were dominant nodules in single or multiple nodules (the largest diameter of the second largest nodules was not more than 50% of the largest nodules), 2) solid nodules, 3) the longest diameter of nodules was ≥1cm and \< 3cm, 4) C-TIRADS 3\~4A nodules. ② Patients who met the puncture indication were confirmed by fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) as benign nodules (Bethesda II). ③ Levels of TSH, FT3 and FT4 were normal, and the antibody titers of TgAb and TPOAb were normal. Eligible subjects will be randomly assigned on a 1:1:2:2 scale to: Group A (placebo conventional dose group, 10 mL/times, 2 times/day), group B (placebo 2x dose group, 10ml/times, 2 times/day), group C (conventional dose group of Prunella oral liquid), group D (Prunella oral liquid 2x dose group). All subjects will receive the treatment for 9 months and follow up at 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th month. The primary efficacy endpoint of this study was the rate of change in thyroid nodule volume from baseline at 9 months of treatment. The rate of change in thyroid nodule volume from baseline at 3 and 6 months of treatment was a secondary efficacy endpoint. Other secondary efficacy endpoints included maximum thyroid nodule diameter, number of thyroid nodules, proportion of patients with reduced thyroid nodule volume or ≥50% from baseline, thyroid volume, thyroid function (serum TSH, FT3, FT4, thyroid egg levels (Tg), thyroid antibody levels (TgAb, TPOAb), quality of life evaluation (SF-36), etc. Safety endpoints included incidence of AE/ serious adverse events (SAE), causality, and outcomes. Incidence of AE/SAE leading to discontinuation. Changes in safety laboratory test values from baseline.

TRAIL Study: Feasibility and Pilot

This is a pilot study to compare two ways of managing newly identified thyroid nodules that are likely to be cancerous based on ultrasound result and which under usual care would undergo immediate biopsy. The main goals of this pilot study are 1) compare anxiety at 6 months in each treatment arm using the validated instrument Anxiety-CA, 2) measure thyroid quality of life in each treatment arm Participants will be randomized to one of two groups: 1. immediate biopsy (usual care) 2. Active monitoring (serial ultrasound based monitoring and close clinical follow-up)

CEUS Improves the Diagnostic Performance of SRSS of Thyroid Carcinoma

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can sensitively show the blood perfusion characteristics of thyroid nodules, which is a useful supplement to gray-scale ultrasound. However, there is no standard combined diagnostic method of gray-scale ultrasound and CEUS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance of the integrated scoring method and the up-and-down scoring method. This study was a multicenter retrospective clinical study and followed the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (version 2015). Inclusion criteria: 1) participants with at least one thyroid nodule larger than 5 mm confirmed by conventional ultrasound; 2) participants underwent gray-scale ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid nodule successively; 3) participants have a final diagnosis of benign or malignant. Exclusion criteria included: 1) participants with cytologic findings of Bethesda I, III, or IV without definitive benign or malignant pathologic findings; 2) participants with a history of thyroid fine needle aspiration, ablation or surgery; 3) participants with low quality ultrasound images (e.g., severe artifacts or low image resolution). According to the American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System, only one thyroid nodule with the highest point was included in each participant. A total of 600 participants from January 2018 to December 2022 were consecutively included in Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University to form a training set (average age 48 years; Range 24-81 years old). A total of 200 subjects with thyroid nodules from January 2022 to December 2022 were consecutively included to form an external validation set in Houjie Hospital of Dongguan City, Guangdong Province (mean age 46 years; Range 30-74 years). The malignant risk of enrolled thyroid nodules and the necessity of biopsy were evaluated by integrated scoring method and up-and-down scoring method, respectively. The diagnostic performance and unnecessary biopsy rate of the above two methods were calculated and compared.

Postoperative Hypocalcemia After Thyroidectomy

This retrospective cohort study investigates predictors of postoperative hypocalcemia following thyroidectomy procedures at Minia University Hospital over a 10-year period (2014-2024). Postthyroidectomy hypocalcemia is one of the most common complications of thyroid surgery, affecting 20-50% of patients. The study aims to identify demographic, clinical, laboratory, and surgical factors associated with the development of both transient and permanent hypocalcemia. Results will inform risk stratification, patient counseling, and perioperative management strategies.

Active Surveillance for Bethesda IV Thyroid Nodules

The traditional surgical approach for Bethesda IV thyroid nodules burdens healthcare systems and patients with costs, perioperative morbidity, and potential long-term consequences of hemithyroidectomy, including hypothyroidism (requiring lifelong thyroid hormone replacement), nerve damage, infection, voice discomfort and postoperative bleeding. Moreover, patient-reported anxiety and reduced quality of life often follow surgery, regardless of benign final pathology. Conversely, surveillance strategies that include periodic ultrasound assessment, clinical examination, and patient education may reduce overtreatment, preserve thyroid function, and optimize resource utilization. This prospective cohort protocol seeks to address these gaps by systematically evaluating the safety, feasibility, patient experience, and clinicopathologic predictors of progression for Bethesda IV nodules \<2 cm managed with active surveillance. Our hypothesis is: In patients with thyroid nodules smaller than 2 cm and cytology consistent with Bethesda IV, active surveillance is a safe and feasible alternative to immediate surgery. We hypothesize that only a minority of patients will demonstrate clinically significant tumor progression or require surgical intervention within five years, and that prospective surveillance can prevent unnecessary thyroid operations without compromising patient safety or long-term outcomes. The primary aim of this study is to determine the proportion of patients with Bethesda IV thyroid nodules \<2 cm who undergo surgical intervention or experience disease progression over a 1-, 2- and 5 year AS period.

Prospective Evaluation of the Pulse Biosciences nPulse™ Vybrance™ Percutaneous Electrode System

The primary objective of this study is to reproduce in a multi-center study results obtained during the feasibility First-In-Human (FIH) study with Prof. Stefano Spiezia, MD (Ospedale del Mare, Naples, Italy) and to monitor additional thyroid-related symptoms and impact of patients quality of life post-ablation using a validated QoL questionnaire.

A Study of Multiparametric Ultrasound Imaging Methods

The researchers are doing this study to see how well a type of ultrasound imaging called multiparametric ultrasound (mpUS), can be used to examine, evaluate, and provide information about different cancerous and non-cancerous tissue. The researchers will compare the results of mpUS imaging to standard ultrasound imaging and other standard tests. mpUS imaging is a type of ultrasound imaging that combines different ultrasound methods and analysis to create a more detailed and accurate assessment of tissue. Standard ultrasound provides a basic image of tissue structure, but mpUS imaging can also show blood vessels, blood flow, and detailed tissue structure (microstructure). The researchers think that mpUS may be a better way for evaluating cancer because it combines different ultrasound methods to assess tissue.

Decision Aid and Thyroid Nodules Management

Patients with small favorable malignant or indeterminate thyroid nodules will receive information about management of thyroid nodules. Participants will be asked to complete brief surveys at the time of enrollment, shortly after the consultation appointment with the surgeon, and a few months after either the consultation or the surgery, to assess their satisfaction with their decision and decision making process. All participants will receive routine care and counseling by their endocrinologist and surgeon.

Radiofrequency Ablation Study in LatinX Patients

Benign thyroid nodules can still create cosmetic, compressive, or hormonal issues for patients. In the past, surgery was typically used to treat thyroid nodules causing the above issues through partial or complete thyroidectomy. More recently, minimally-invasive techniques have been developed to treat these issues. This study is investigating the use of one of these techniques, radiofrequency ablation, in Latinx patients with benign symptomatic thyroid nodules. This procedure is of interest because it avoids the risks of surgery and can be done outside an operating room. The study hypothesis is that the use of RFA is an effective and safe therapeutic option for LatinX patients with a symptomatic benign nodule wishing to avoid surgery.

Comparing a New 3D Technology Used to Measure Thyroid Nodule Volume to Standard Ultrasound

After thyroid ablation procedure, the volume of the thyroid nodule (s) needs to be measured to see how well the procedure worked. Currently, these volumes are measured using traditional 2D ultrasound imaging. However, this approach comes with limitations because of the information 2D images cannot gather and because of differences in these measurements between different doctors. A new ultrasound technology called PIUR 3D imaging offers a novel alternative approach. The system uses advanced technology to create 3D images and can generate automated volume estimates. The PIUR imaging system, PIUR tUS Infinity, has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to aid in treatment decisions when used alongside traditional 2D ultrasound imaging. The purpose of this study is to test how effective and consistent the PIUR imaging technology is compared to standard 2D ultrasound in measuring thyroid nodule volume.

The Safety and Feasibility of Radiofrequency Ablation to Treat Low-risk Thyroid Cancer

The goal of this clinical trial is to test radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in thyroid cancers ≤2 cm in diameter. The main question it aims to answer is: • What is the feasibility of RFA use for low-risk thyroid cancers (≤2 cm)? Participants will undergo a set of pre-procedural scans of the target thyroid nodule and undergo the RFA procedure/intervention. Then, participants will partake in three follow-up appointments at 4 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months post-procedure as per standard of care.

Ultrasound-guided Thermal Ablation for Bethesda III/IV Thyroid Nodules

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of ultrasound-guided thermal ablation for Bethesda III/IV thyroid nodules

Renovated Prediction Model for Difficult Transoral and Submental Endoscopic Thyroidectomy

The investigators have previously proposed a prediction model for difficult transoral and submental thyroidectomy through a retrospective study. In order to better promote transoral and submental endoscopic approach for thyroid surgery and to set up an appropriate training course, the investigators aim to renovate and validate the prediction model through a prospective study.

Accuracy of FNAC in Diagnosis of Thyroid Nodules

Detection of degree of accuracy of FNAC in diagnosis of thyroid nodules

Myo-inositol and Selenium in Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules (TIR3a)

Thyroid nodules present a variable risk of malignancy depending on the cytological result obtained from the ultrasound-assisted thyroid fine needle aspiration biopsy. According to the Italian Cytology classification SIAPEC-IAP 2014, the TIR3A nodules are indeterminate nodules with a risk of malignancy lower than 10%. Clinical and instrumental follow-up is recommended in these cases, including repetition of the fine needle aspiration. A study have demonstrate the effect of a six-month treatment with a supplement containing myo-inositol and selenium on the size and elasticity of benign thyroid nodules. Our hypothesis is that the use of this supplement can determine a reduction in the size and consistency of the nodule assessed through ultrasound and elastosonography also in cytologically indeterminate (TIR3A) nodules and that treatment can reduce the cellular proliferation of these nodules assessed by immunocytochemistry. Therefore, we design a prospective randomized pilot study to assess efficacy and safety of myo-inositol and selenium in TIR3a thyroid nosules, comparing treated and untreated patients.

Surgical Competency for Robot-Assisted Thyroidectomy: Construction and Validation of a Robotic Thyroidectomy Assessment Score (RTAS)

To develop and validate a structured scoring tool (robotic thyroidectomy assessment score, RTAS) for assessing and quantifying surgical performance in robotic thyroidectomy (RT).

Active Surveillance Program in Thyroid Nodules

Overview This study focuses on thyroid nodules, specifically the Bethesda IV-VI categories, which have uncertain or suspicious malignancy. The idea is to observe and monitor these nodules instead of opting for immediate surgery, a practice known as active surveillance. The main goal of active surveillance is to avoid unnecessary surgeries, which can lead to complications like nerve damage or hypoparathyroidism. Problem and Objectives Thyroid nodules in these Bethesda categories can be cancerous, but not all require immediate removal. Active surveillance tracks nodule growth and other changes using regular ultrasounds and clinical checkups. This approach is gaining popularity, especially in Japan, Europe, and the U.S., but there's still a need for more data, particularly in Latin America. The primary objectives of the study are: General: To describe the clinical and imaging characteristics of patients with Bethesda IV-VI nodules under active surveillance. Specific: To measure surgery rates, reasons for surgery, and how long patients can avoid surgery. Methodology This study is a multicenter historical cohort study, which will look at patients treated from 2019 to 2023 in different hospitals. Patients included in the study are those with Bethesda IV-VI thyroid nodules, who are over 18 and have been managed without immediate thyroid surgery. Data will be collected from medical records and imaging reports, and patients will be followed up to document any changes in their nodules, including growth or metastasis. Expected Impact The study aims to determine whether active surveillance can safely delay or avoid surgery for selected patients. It could have a significant impact on clinical decision-making, improving patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary surgeries, especially within the Colombian healthcare system. If successful, this approach could reduce costs and improve the quality of life for patients with thyroid nodules. Ethical Considerations The study will follow ethical guidelines, ensuring patient confidentiality and classifying the research as "no-risk," meaning it involves minimal risk to the participants.

Health-Related Quality of Life and Emotions in Patients with Thyroid Nodules

The purpose of this observational research is to evaluate and compare the health-related quality of life and emotional well-being of patients with thyroid nodules before and after treatment. This is a data collection study by allowing investigators to access information generated before and after treatment.

Preoperative Hemogram Parameters and BRAF Molecular Test Detected by Bethesda 3 Cytology.

The main hypothesis of this study is that preoperative hemogram parameters can be used as biomarkers for malignancy in patients with thyroid nodule Bethesda 3 cytology. The secondary hypothesis is that BRAF molecular testing has a high predictive value in predicting malignancy in patients with thyroid nodule Bethesda 3 cytology. Primary outcome: Preoperative hemogram parameters. Secondary outcome: BRAF positivity.

Role of TIRADS and Bethesda Scoring Systems in Management of Thyroid Nodules

role of TIRADS and Bethesda scoring system in management of thyroid nodules as these methods are ultrasound clasification that helps increase the diagnostic effectiveness of thyroid nodules and reduces the use of preopeative FNA .that nodules are usually divided into diffent categories based on TIRADS and are then referred to FNA and follow up according to variable risk of maligneny.

Radiofrequency Ablation in TIR3A Nodules With Negative Genetic Evaluation

The goal of this clinical trial is to demonstrate that TIR3A nodules with negative genetic test can be safely and effectively treated by radiofrequency ablation, with nodular shrinkage and improvement of clinical symptoms. Fine needle aspiration cytology is the gold standard test for differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules, but sometimes the result can be indeterminate with a risk of malignancy of 10-30%. In these cases the ablation is not indicated and many patients with benign nodules that may benefit from the procedure are not treated. All the patients enrolled must have a TIR3A cytology and negative genetic test for mutations associated with thyroid carcinoma. Before the ablation blood, evaluation of serum TSH, anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies and calcitonin levels will be performed.

Cognition and QoL After Thyroid Surgery

The development of cognitive dysfunction can profoundly affect HR-QoL as well as the possibility of societal participation and ability to work, and thereby relevantly impacts prospects for cancer survivorship. The aim of the study is to obtain improved understanding of the scope and magnitude of objective cognitive dysfunction in DTC survivors, and its relation to subjective cognitive dysfunction, thyroid hormone levels, physical activity and HRQoL. This is done in a prospective study where patients operated for a thyroid nodule (Bethesda IV-VI, i.e., benign \[goitre with nodule and fibroadenomas\], low-risk DTC and intermediate-high risk DTC) are included and asked to serially perform online neuropsychological testing as well as to complete questionnaires related to HR-QoL, physical activity and additional psychological and physical complaints. Blood is analysed for levels of thyroid hormones and systemic inflammation.

Assessment the Cancer Risk of Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules Through Integration of Clinical, Ultrasonographic and Multiomic Features

Indeterminate thyroid nodules have a mild risk of malignancy (15-30%). The aim of our study is to individuate new biomarkers of thyroid carcinoma through multiomic analyses of blood samples and of specimen samples of patients with indeterminate thyroid nodules.