Quantitative analysis of the anatomy of the epineurium of the canine recurrent laryngeal nerve

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the amount of epineurium surrounding the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) compared with a limb nerve, that to flexor hallicus longus (NFHL). Nerve samples were obtained from 10 adult dogs and studied using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy to measure the relative proportion of epineurium and the relative proportions of adipose and collagenous tissue comprising the epineurium in both nerves. Significantly greater relative epineurial cross-sectional areas and adipose content were found in the RLN than in the NFHL. Based on observations on noncranial peripheral nerves, the findings indicate that the RLN is better protected against deformational forces associated with compression than stretching forces. The RLN may not be structured well for successful reinnervation after injury. The patterns observed for adipose tissue in RLN epineurial tissue appeared unique compared with those previously reported in peripheral nerves. The primary role associated with adipose tissue is to ' package ' the nerve for protection. The RLN is considered to be a vital nerve in the body, as are other cranial nerves. The large proportions of adipose tissue in the epineurium may relate to the importance of protecting this nerve from injury.

Biomechanical Properties of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve in the Piglet

“…4 This study demonstrated a significant difference in the amount and makeup of the epineurium in the left RLN compared to the NFHL. The RLN exhibited a significantly greater amount of adipose tissue and relative cross-sectional area consisting of epineurium than the NFHL nerve.…”

Histological Asymmetry of the Human Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve

“…Extra padding surrounding the RLN could help to prevent damage resulting from, for example, blows to the neck, compression and elongation related to movements of the head, such as flexion, extension, and rotational movements, and the elevation and depression that occur during swallowing and voice production. 16 Journal of Voice, Vol. 25, No.…”

Variations in the course and microanatomical study of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve and its clinical importance

“…The factors protecting the peripheral nerves against stretching can be attributed to their anatomical structure and biomechanical characteristics (Barkmeier and Luschei, 2000;Phillips et al, 2004;Topp and Boyd, 2006;Vivo et al, 2004). The structural organization of peripheral nerves enables them to function while resisting and adapting to stresses placed on them by varying postures and movements.…”