RLN
Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is a branch of the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) that supplies the intrinsic muscles of the larynx and provides sensory input below the vocal cords. It has two main branches, right and left, which differ in their anatomical course but share a common function in voice production and airway protection.
The right RLN loops around the right subclavian artery in the superior mediastinum before ascending in the
Clinical significance centers on injury risk. Due to its lengthy intrathoracic and cervical course, the RLN
See also: vagus nerve, laryngeal nerve injuries, thyroid surgery.