Interrecurrent nerve anastomosis with free nerve graft transposition in rabbits

Abstract

Objective: In this experimental study, we aimed to observe the effect of interrecurrent free nerve graft transposition performed after iatrogenic transection of the recurrent laryngeal nerve on the improvement of vocal cord function in rabbits. Methods: The study consisted of 2 groups as the experimental, and control groups each containing 8 rabbits. The right recurrent nerve was transected both in the control and experiment groups. Inter-recurrent free nerve graft transposition using sural nerve was performed with end-to-side anastomosis in the experimental group whereas in the control group, nerve reconstruction was not performed. Results: After the 3 rd postoperative month, the right vocal cord activity was recorded in the experimental group using videolaryngoscopy (VLS) and intramuscular electromyography (EMG). In contrast to the control group, no vocal cord muscle atrophy was found during light microscopic examination in the rabbits of the experimental group. Discussion: Inter-recurrent free nerve graft transposition is an acceptable method which can be considered in patients with iatrogenic recurrent nerve transection.