Vocal fold surgical technique has advanced substantially because of in
creased knowledge regarding anatomy and physiology of phonation and be
cause of technological improvements. However, many new techniques have
been based on anecdote and ''common sense,'' largely because there is
no good experimental model for vocal fold surgery since the human is
the only species with a vocal ligament. Consequently, our earlier pron
ouncements require careful reexamination especially as new research ad
ds to our fund of knowledge. Review of the principles and results of l
aryngeal microflap surgery suggests that there may be important shortc
omings in the technique. A new mini-microflap technique appears better
, as does limited mucosal resection. This is a preliminary report, and
further investigation is needed.