Identifying Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve in Thyroid Surgery Using Relationship with Superior Parathyroid Gland and Tubercle of Zuckerkandl

Introduction: Recurrent laryngeal nerves (RLN) are particularly prone to injury during thyroid surgeries due to its intimate relationship and proximity with the gland. Zuckerkandl’s tubercle (ZT) helps in preserving RLN intra operative. Material and Methods: A prospective study for identifying RLN in thyroid surgery using relationship with superior parathyroid gland and tubercle of Zuckerkandl was conducted on 50 thyroidectomy patients between August 2013 and February 2014. Results: In all cases ZT was identified. Temporary paralysis of RLN was seen in 3 (6%) cases and permanent paralysis in 2 (4%) of cases. Discussion: The site of greatest risk during thyroidectomy to the RLN is in the last 2-3 cm extralaryngeal course of the nerve. Relationship of recurrent laryngeal nerve with superior parathyroid gland and tubercle of Zukerkandl (ZT) is known. Conclusion: Use of ZT and superior parathyroids as a landmark allows safe dissection of RLN.