Abstract
Aim and objective: To study the anatomic variations of the external branch of superior laryngeal nerve & to propose a systemic approach to identification and preservation of this nerve during thyroid surgery. Methods: In the present study total 90 cases of thyroid diseases were treated with surgery, in the department of ENT at a tertiary care hospital, over a period of 2 years. Hemithyroidectomy was the most common operative procedure implemented in 63 patients (70%) among which right sided was more common (58.7%). Next common procedure performed was that of total thyroidectomy in 27 patients (30%). The position of EBSLN was classified according to the Cernea’s classification. Results: A total number of 88 EBSLN were identified and majority of EBSLN were found to be type II a variant i.e 59% followed by type I variant (25%) and type II b variant (16%). In about 18 patients, EBSLN was not identified. Conclusion: In our study the surgeons can be sensitized about EBSLN anatomic variations, anatomic variation taken into consideration to identify EBSLN during thyroid surgery. Preservation of the EBSLN maintains optimal function of the larynx.
Highlights
The basic principle of head and neck surgery is based on the identification and preservation of important structures, rather than avoidance
The present study focuses on intra operative identification and preservation of external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) during thyroid surgery
The surgeons can be sensitized about EBSLN anatomic variations
Summary
The basic principle of head and neck surgery is based on the identification and preservation of important structures, rather than avoidance. This principle is applicable to identification and preservation of external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) as a standard routine in all thyroid surgeries. External Branch of Superior Laryngeal Nerve (EBSLN) supplies the cricothyroid muscle which is the main tensor of the vocal cord. The present study focuses on intra operative identification and preservation of EBSLN during thyroid surgery. The importance of voice in today’s world cannot be understated and with more people depending on their voice for livelihood by preventing damage to the EBSLN, possible voice symptoms post thyroidectomy can be prevented
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