Differences of GDNF expression are linked to the differential timing of RLN axon regeneration and individual muscle reinnervation. The present finding suggests the need to further investigate the role of GDNF and other neurotrophic factors in the timing of reinnervation, axon guidance, and neuromuscular junction formation as it relates to synkinetic and nonsynkinetic RLN reinnervation. Future experimental results may provide insight to therapeutic options that could stimulate appropriate neuromuscular junction formation and nonsynkintic functional reinnervation following RLN injury.

4 Laryngoscope, 126:1831-1836, 2016.

4 Laryngoscope, 126:E273-E277, 2016.

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury is commonly encountered by thyroid surgeons and may carry with it great morbidity. Whether the injury is accidental or due to deliberate resection for oncologic soundness, the surgeon must be prepared to offer the best available treatment to patients, either at the time of injury or early in the recovery process. We review advances in treatment that allow optimal management of an acute RLN injury: ansa cervicalis-RLN reinnervation, in-office unsedated vocal fold injection augmentation, and electromyographic prognostication. The benefits and advantages of each procedure as well as relevant anatomy and techniques are delineated.

No abstract