Random Neurosurg.

Question 1

The Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve branches from the _____ _____. Describe its position on the right vs left.

Answer 1

Answer: Vagus Nerve

Right: branches from the vagus nerve near the right subclavian artery and loops under the artery.

Left: branches from the vagus nerve at the level of the aortic arch and loops under the arch.

Question 2

What happens if the RLN is damaged?

Answer 2

-difficulty breathing
-decreased airway protection: potential aspiration/atelectasis
-hoarseness
-impaired ability to cough

Question 3

This type of hemorrhage should be suspected in patients with recurrent lobar hemorrhage. What causes this?

Answer 3

-Amyloid hemorrhage
-Caused by pathologic deposition of beta amyloid protein within the media of small meningeal and cortical vessels (especially those in white matter).