The recurrent laryngeal nerve

Nonrecurrence and variations in the ascending course of the recurrent laryngeal nerves make it essential to identify the nerve to avoid injury to it during thyroidectomy. We believe that visual identification of the nerve without undue handling is all that is necessary. The recurrent nerve is no more delicate than other similar nerves. Unilateral injury to the recurrent nerve may result in temporary hoarseness which will improve with time. Some restriction of the airway during exertion may be present. Bilateral injury to the recurrent nerves may produce initially a loss of voice without airway constriction. Later the voice may return, accompanied by serious respiratory embarrassment on exertion.