Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Post-operative complications from thyroid surgery include potential injury to which nerve?

1. Vagus nerve

2. Recurrent laryngeal nerve

3. Accessory nerve

4. Glossopharyngeal nerve

The correct answer is: Recurrent laryngeal nerve

In thyroid surgery, there is a significant risk of injuring the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which is critical for regulating vocal cord movement. The recurrent laryngeal nerve runs in close proximity to the thyroid gland, and any manipulation or retraction during surgery can lead to trauma to this nerve. Injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve can result in vocal cord paralysis, which manifests as hoarseness, difficulty speaking, or even airway obstruction in severe cases. The anatomical pathway of the recurrent laryngeal nerve is particularly vulnerable as it loops around structures in the neck before innervating the larynx, making it essential for surgeons to identify and protect this nerve during thyroid procedures. Awareness of its anatomical variations is important for preventing complications and ensuring good surgical outcomes. While other nerves listed do have vital functions, such as the vagus nerve, accessory nerve, and glossopharyngeal nerve, they are not directly involved in the complications commonly associated with thyroid surgery. Hence, the recurrent laryngeal nerve is the correct answer when considering post-operative complications related to nerve injury in this context.