Key anatomical landmarks for identifying the recurrent laryngeal nerve location during extrafascial thyroidectomy.

Abstract

Zuckerkandl’s tubercle (ZT) refers to the posterior extension of the lateral lobes that consists solely of thyroid tissue. Near this tubercle, the superior parathyroid gland is positioned on the posterior surface of the thyroid gland. Below these two structures lies the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), which approaches the larynx behind the cricothyroid joint and beneath the inferior constrictor muscle. The aim of the study is to establish the main anatomical landmarks and structures for determining the probable location of the RLN for its safe and effective identifying and preserving.