Intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring during surgery for left lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring during surgery for left lung cancer.

METHODS

From April 2008 to April 2009, a total of 25 patients at high risk for left recurrent laryngeal nerve injury agreed to and underwent intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring during surgery for left lung cancer in our hospital. Results and clinical records were reviewed.

RESULTS

All the patients' left recurrent laryngeal nerves were identified during operation by intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring. Twenty-four patients retained normal left recurrent laryngeal nerves after the operation. One patient, in whom part of the left recurrent laryngeal nerve was found to be invaded, underwent single-stage nerve anastomosis under recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring after the invaded nerve was resected. There were no significant intraoperative or postoperative complications among the other patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring during thoracotomy is a safe and effective way of identifying the nerve. It may help surgeons to avoid injuring the recurrent laryngeal nerve during some thoracic procedures.