[The anastomotic loop between recurrent laryngeal nerves: an anatomic reality]

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Neuroscience

Context:

• Classic laryngeal nerve morphology was studied.
• Recent literature suggests a potential anastomotic loop.

Purpose:

• To anatomically investigate the human laryngeal nervous system.
• To document the presence and morphology of a recurrent laryngeal nerve anastomosis.

Summary:

• Dissection of 13 fresh human anatomical models revealed a constant anastomotic nervous loop between the two recurrent laryngeal nerves.
• This loop, located in the esophageal-tracheal space, was present in all specimens, originating from both right and left recurrent nerves.
• Its consistent presence and morphology confirm it as an anatomical and surgical reality.

Impact:

• Provides anatomical evidence for a previously underreported neural structure.
• Highlights potential implications for surgical interventions in laryngeal paralysis.
• Suggests further research into the functional role and therapeutic applications of this anastomosis.