skip to main content

Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateSurgery (post-operative, follow-up)Recurrent laryngeal nerve injuryUSMLE Step 3

A 52-year-old woman has hoarseness and a weak voice after thyroid lobectomy. She has no stridor and calcium is normal. Laryngoscopy shows immobility of one vocal cord. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury

Unilateral vocal cord paralysis and hoarseness after thyroid surgery indicate recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.

Reference: American Thyroid Association Thyroid Surgery Guidance