What Is TAE?
Thyroid Artery Embolization is a cutting-edge, nonsurgical procedure offered at North Star Vascular and Interventional. It provides an effective solution for shrinking goiters by blocking the blood supply to portions of the thyroid gland.
During TAE, a skilled interventional radiologist uses imaging to guide a tiny catheter—either through an artery in the groin or arm—directly to the thyroid’s blood supply. Embolic agents (tiny particles) are then delivered to the targeted arteries, restricting blood flow. Without oxygen and nutrients, the enlarged thyroid tissue gradually shrinks over weeks to months, relieving symptoms and improving the appearance of the neck.
Benefits of Thyroid Artery Embolization
- Minimally invasive: No large incisions or general anesthesia required; only local anesthesia and light sedation are needed.
- Outpatient procedure: Most patients return home the same day and recover quickly.
- No visible scarring: Only a tiny puncture site is left, typically covered with a Band-Aid.
- Preservation of thyroid function: Many patients retain normal thyroid hormone levels following TAE.
- Significant reduction in goiter size: Studies report 60–80% reduction in goiter volume at 3–6 months post-procedure, with continued improvement thereafter.
- Symptom relief: Patients often notice marked alleviation of neck pressure, difficulty swallowing, and breathing issues as the goiter shrinks.
Who Is a Candidate for TAE?
TAE may be recommended for individuals who:
- Have large, symptomatic goiters or multinodular goiters causing compression symptoms
- Cannot or do not wish to undergo surgery due to medical risks or personal preference
- Seek a minimally invasive alternative with less downtime and risk of complications
What to Expect During and After TAE
The procedure typically lasts under an hour. It is performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation. Patients can expect:
- A short recovery time with little to no hospital stay
- Gradual shrinkage of the goiter over the following months
- Regular follow-up visits and imaging to monitor progress
- Less turtlenecks and scarves
- Better sleep
- Smaller neck
While Thyroid Artery Embolization is generally safe, some patients may experience transient hormone fluctuations, requiring temporary medication adjustments and close monitoring during the first weeks after treatment. Rare complications—such as thyroid storm—are very uncommon but managed promptly by experienced staff.
Why Choose North Star Vascular and Interventional for Goiter Care?
At North Star Vascular and Interventional, our fellowship-trained, experienced physicians specialize in advanced, image-guided, minimally invasive thyroid procedures. We work closely with endocrinologists and head and neck specialists to deliver superior outcomes in a comfortable and supportive outpatient setting.
If you’re struggling with a goiter or thyroid nodules and want to discuss modern, less invasive treatments like Thyroid Artery Embolization, contact North Star Vascular and Interventional for a personalized consultation. Our team is dedicated to helping you restore comfort, confidence, and optimal thyroid health.