The anatomical significance of Zuckerkandl's tubercle in thyroid operation

Objective: To investigate the anatomical significance of Zuckerkandl's tubercle (ZT). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed thyroid gland resection in 102 cases of 145 sides. We observed the presence and size of ZT, as well as its relationship with recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and superior parathyroid (SP). All the patients were graded according to PELIZZO and classified according to YUN et al's classification of RLN-ZT relationship. Results: Incidence rate was 85.5% in ZT, which was consistent with previous studies, the difference between the number of greater than 0 level and 0 level was obvious. The appearance of ZT was associated with postoperative hoarseness and SP exposure. The higher the ZT level, the more types of A; the lower the ZT level, the more types of D. Conclusion: ZT can be used as RLN and SP localization and anatomical landmark to avoid damage to RLN and SP during the operation.