Study on Injury of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve in Thyroidectomy

Objective to investigate the prevention and treatment of recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury induced by thyroid operation. Methods Clinical data of 260 patients with RLN injury caused by thyroid operation in my hospital was analyzed retrospectively. Results RLN injury occurred in 4 cases (1.6%), Transection of the nerve was found in 2 cases, blind grapping 1 case, carcinoma invading 1 case. Damaged RLN of 2 cases of transection was performed end to end anastomosis .1 case of carcinoma invading repaired by grafting great auricular nerve immediately, 4 cases were followed up for 1 year, phonation restored satisfied. Conclusions Most RLN injuries caused by thyroid operation are mechanical. RLN Should be exposed actively in total thyroidectomy or subtotal thyroidectomy with large thyroid. Once RLN injury is found ,reinnerration should be performed as soon as possible.