Extra-laryngeal bifurcation of recurrent laryngeal nerve

Authors

  • João Subtil Unidade de ORL Hospital CUF Descobertas
  • Pedro Montalvão Unidade de ORL Hospital CUF Descobertas
  • José Saraiva Diredor da Unidade de ORL Hospital CUF Descobertas
  • Nuno Santiago Professor da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas de Lisboa; Unidade de ORL Hospital CUF Descobertas

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34631/sporl.342

Keywords:

Recurrent laryngeal nerve, bifurcation

Abstract

Though frequently ignored, extra-laryngeal bifurcation of recurrent laryngeal nerve is a fairly common and important anatomical variation (36-63%). Recognizing its importance is paramount, knowing that preservation of vocal function depends on the protection of ali laryngeal rami. Injuring one ramus is possible after mistaking an identified ramus for an unbranched recurrent nerve. This paper presents a total thyroidectomy patient, on a papillary carcinoma, during which a bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve bifurcation was noted.

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How to Cite

Subtil, J., Montalvão, P., Saraiva, J., & Santiago, N. (1969). Extra-laryngeal bifurcation of recurrent laryngeal nerve. Portuguese Journal of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, 46(2), 99–102. https://doi.org/10.34631/sporl.342

Issue

Vol. 46 No. 2 (2008): Junho

Section

Case Report