[The importance of nonrecurrent laryngeal nerve in thyroid surgery].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the anatomic variation of nonrecurrent laryngeal nerve (NRLN) and its surgical identification and prevention during thyroidectomy.

METHODS

The database of 5 NRLN cases was analyzed to investigate the difference of operative maneuvers and procedures.

RESULTS

All 5 NRLN were located in the right side. Two cases were found have vocal cord paralysis and 1 case recovered in 3 cases who have NRLN injures.

CONCLUSIONS

Any transverse bond should not be cut between vascular and laryngeal except middle thyroid vein. Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) should be dissected during thyroid excision. Cervical pneumogastric nerve should be systematic dissected to detect whether RNLN is exist, if RLN is not exist in the same side.