During total thyroidectomy, the inferior thyroid artery is ligated medially close to the thyroid gland rather than at its origin to protect which structure?

• A External branch of superior laryngeal nerve
• B Recurrent laryngeal nerve
• C Thoracic duct on the left side
• D Parathyroid glands' blood supply ✓

Explanation

The parathyroid glands derive most of their blood supply from the inferior thyroid artery. Ligation of the inferior thyroid artery at its origin (far from the gland) devascularises the parathyroids, causing hypoparathyroidism. Ligating terminal branches on the capsule of the thyroid preserves the vascular pedicles to the parathyroids. The recurrent laryngeal nerve is protected by identifying it visually, not by this ligation technique.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.