Clinical significance of anatomizing recurrent laryngeal nerve and its branches during thyroidectomy

Objective: To explore the clinical significance of anatomizing recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and its branches during thyroidectomy. Methods: One hundred and five sides of RLN anatomized during 95 cases of thyroidectomy were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Ninety seven sides(92.38%) of the 105 RLN anatomized bifurcated into the laryngeal branch and extra-laryngeal branch. Six sides(5.71%) of the RLN gave off one branch. Two sides (1.91%) of the RLN gave off three branches. The lengths of branches were 0.4-2.5 cm. One case had postoperatively transient hoarseness. Conclusions: There are branches and other anatomical features of the RLN. Correct identification and safe dissection of the RLN are essential in thyroid surgery.