Laryngeal nerves in the cadaveric neck and its relevance to neck surgery- A descriptive study

Background Because of its close relationship with vessels that supply the thyroid gland, it is necessary to understand and document the course of the laryngeal nerves to prevent accidental damage. Otherwise it can lead to weakness in vocal cord function if ligated along with the arteries during thyroidectomy or other surgical procedures. The aim of our study was to examine and document the origin, relationship, and branching patterns of the laryngeal nerves on the side of the neck. Method The present cross sectional anatomical study was conducted on 64 dissected necks of formalin-fixed cadavers that were utilized for undergraduate teaching purposes. Different parameters were measured in the neck along with the relationship between the laryngeal nerves and their accompanying arteries. Results We observed usual and unusual course of laryngeal nerves along with some variations. Some of the novel findings were an internal laryngeal nerve piercing the thyroid cartilage lamina and an external laryngeal nerve communicating with the superior cervical ganglion. Conclusion The present study observed anatomical variations in the course of the laryngeal nerves, which are relevant for clinical practice. The potential risks of damage to these laryngeal nerves during various surgical procedures make it necessary to review and compile its relationship with the surrounding structures.