Using neuromonitoring to protect laryngeal nerves during thyroid surgery

Effectiveness of Intraoperative Neuromonitoring to Identify and Preserve External Branch of Superior Laryngeal Nerve During Thyroid Surgery

Not applicable Interventional Seoul National University Hospital · NCT06002984

This study tests if using special nerve monitoring during thyroid surgery can help protect the voice of patients by preventing nerve damage.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment94 (estimated)
Ages19 Years to 79 Years
SexAll
SponsorSeoul National University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Seoul)
Trial IDNCT06002984 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of intraoperative neuromonitoring of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve during thyroid surgery. By utilizing neuromonitoring techniques, the study seeks to confirm the presence and integrity of this crucial nerve, which is vital for maintaining proper vocal cord function. The trial will involve patients scheduled for thyroid surgery, comparing outcomes between those who receive neuromonitoring and those who do not. The goal is to provide evidence on whether this approach can improve voice quality and reduce complications associated with nerve damage.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients scheduled for thyroid surgery who understand and agree to participate.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of laryngeal nerve injury or those requiring extensive neck dissection may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved preservation of voice function in patients undergoing thyroid surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using neuromonitoring techniques during thyroid surgery, suggesting potential benefits in nerve preservation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are scheduled to undergo thyroid surgery
* Patients who understand and agree to take part in this study

Exclusion Criteria:

* If the thyroid tumor is suspected to invade adjacent organs (esophagus, trachea, carotid artery, jugular vein etc.)
* Patients who are required with lateral compartment neck dissection
* Patients with recurrent thyroid cancer
* Patients with palsy of recurrent laryngeal nerve or superior laryngeal nerve external branch in the past or present
* Patients with a history of vocal cord and larynx disease
* History of hyperthyroidism (e.g., Graves' disease)
* Taking anticoagulants (aspirin, warfarin, etc.) before surgery
* Disorders of coagulation
* In the case of women, pregnant women and breastfeeding patients
* Patients judged inappropriate by clinical trial researcher

Where this trial is running

Seoul

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Laryngeal Nerve InjuriesThyroidectomyVoice ChangeExternal branch of the superior Laryngeal Nerve
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.