Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury in thyroid surgery : clinical pathways and resources consumption

Background: The impact of recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury management in thyroid surgery seems to be relevant to patients, National Healthcare System (NHS), and society. Methods: We studied resource consumption in the management of patients with RLN injury versus noninjured patients investigating 3 perspectives (patients, NHS, and society) in 5 clinical pathways. Results: Direct medical costs supported by the NHS range from a minimum of euro (€) 79.46 to a maximum of € 3261.95. From the patient's perspective, the direct medical costs supported by the patient increased from a minimum of € 3.60 to a maximum of € 499.45. Productivity losses were accounted in € 156 per day per patient. From the NHS perspective, the percentage increase ranged from 43.25% to 98.14%. From the patient's perspective, it ranged from 51.52% to 80.60%. Conclusion: The analysis shows a significant economic impact of RLN injury management, which varies depending on the damage, duration, and severity.