Long-Term Outcomes of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Repair/Reconstruction in Oncological Settings

Vocal cord paralysis results from involvement of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), either before the surgery or following excision. Coaptation of the resected edges utilising microsurgical techniques is the most promising therapeutic strategy available for RLN excision. The RLN can be repaired by direct epineural coaptation or using nerve grafts adhering to recommended microsurgical techniques. This article aims to convey our experience with RLN resections/injuries and their subsequent effects. We assessed the RLN repairs that our institute had completed from April 2018 to September 2023(5 years and 5 months) including follow-up of minimum 1 year. The Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOSI) was applied to assess dysphagia, aspiration risk, and glottic gap by laryngoscopy, and GRBAS (Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain) comprised the basis for the assessment of voice quality by speech specialists. Surgical technique included using 9–0 Ethilon either for primary repair or for repair with a nerve graft. Ten patients were included in the study; six (60