Abstract Background Microwave ablation (MWA) was first described as a technique to treat thyroid nodules in 2015 (1). It was recently approved by NICE for use in the UK in late 2022 (2). The rational for this technique is that it can offer faster recovery, better aesthetic outcome and be more cost-effective than surgical approaches (3). Whilst evidence on MWA is limited, there is more evidence on other forms of minimally invasive techniques such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA). A study of complications following RFA demonstrated a 0.07% incidence of abscess formation (4). Methods The authors present a case report of deep neck space abscess following MWA. Results The patient presented to the Accident & Emergency department 7 weeks after undergoing MWA for benign multinodular goitre. She presented to hospital after having 7 days of increasing neck pain and swelling where the MWA had taken place. She was haemodynamically stable but had elevated inflammatory markers. An ultrasound-guided drainage took place within 24 h of presentation with 7mls of pus drained. After another 48 h of observation, she underwent incision and drainage of the collection in theatre. The cultures grew cutibacterium acnes which required a prolonged course of antibiotics over 6 weeks. Conclusions This is the first documented case of deep neck space abscess following MWA in the UK. It is important to disseminate cases of complications following MWA to raise awareness and educate colleagues on the risks and complications associated with this procedure and how it can present.
Meredith et al. (2026) studied this question.