Protection of recurrent laryngeal nerve in endoscopic thyroidectomy through the upper part of sternum / 中国现代普通外科进展

ABSTRACT

Objective:To study the methods of protecting recurrent laryngeal nerve(RLN) in endoscopic thyroidectomy through the upper part of sternum.Methods:The clinilical data of 46 cases underwent endoscopic thyroidectomy through the upper part of sternum was analyzed.RLN was revealed when we performed nodulectomy or partial thyroidectomy.But during subtotal and near-total thyroidectomy the RLN was always revealed.Results:Forty-five of forty-six cases were compeleted successfully with endoscopic thyroidectomy.One case was converted to open thyroidectomy because of thyroid carcinoma.No intraoperative or postoperative hemorrhage,RLN injuried and deadlimb occurred.Conclusion:In order to reduce the injury of RLN,we should select the fitting cases strictly,master the opportunity and methods of revealed RLN.