Which anatomical structure at the lateral border of the thyroid lobe serves as an important intraoperative landmark for locating the recurrent laryngeal nerve and the superior parathyroid gland?
- A Suspensory ligament of Berry
- B Tubercle of Zuckerkandl ✓
- C Levator glandulae thyroideae
- D Thyrocervical trunk
Correct answer: B. Tubercle of Zuckerkandl
Explanation
The tubercle of Zuckerkandl is a posterolateral projection of thyroid tissue representing fusion of the lateral lobes with the ultimobranchial body. It lies immediately anterior to the recurrent laryngeal nerve at its entry into the larynx, and the superior parathyroid gland characteristically sits cranial to it on the tracheo-oesophageal groove. Identifying it directs the surgeon safely to both structures. Berry's ligament is the fascial attachment fixing the lobe to the cricoid cartilage.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
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