QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
This is incorrect. Phrenic nerve damage would most likely present with breathing difficulties. The phrenic nerve is more susceptible to damage in cardiac and thoracic surgery, rather than in thyroid surgery.
10026196
b
Phrenic nerve
QuestionChoice
This is incorrect. Long thoracic nerve damage presents with a 'winged scapula' deformity. The long thoracic nerve is susceptible to damage following chest drain insertion or prolonged crutch use. It is not commonly damaged in thyroid surgery and is not associated with voice changes.
10026198
d
Long thoracic nerve
QuestionChoice
This is incorrect. Hypoglossal nerve damage would present with tongue deviation/wasting. The hypoglossal nerve is susceptible to damage in a carotid endarterectomy, rather than in thyroid surgery.
10026197
c
Hypoglossal nerve
QuestionChoice
This is correct. The recurrent laryngeal nerve is a branch of the vagus nerve and supplies the vocal cords. It is prone to damage in thyroid surgery, as well as thoracic surgery. Voice changes are a common sign of recurrent laryngeal nerve damage.
10026195
a
Recurrent laryngeal nerve
QuestionChoice
This is incorrect. Thoracodorsal nerve damage is likely to present with pain and weakness in the upper limb. The thoracodorsal nerve is vulnerable to injury in breast procedures. It is not commonly damaged in thyroid surgery and is not associated with voice changes.
10026199
e
Thoracodorsal nerve
Concept
Chapter
2693
5883
Complications of thyroid surgery
Topic
135
General surgery
17637
A 60 year old woman undergoes a total thyroidectomy due to medullary thyroid cancer. Following the procedure, it is noted that her voice has become hoarse and breathy. The surgeon suspects intra-operative damage of a nerve.

Which of the following nerves has most likely been damaged?
a