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The origin and growth of laryngology is inseparably linked to the development of endoscopic surgery of the larynx. Phonomicrosurgery is a means of maximally preserving the layered microstructure of the vocal fold, that is, the epithelium and lamina propria. Phonomicrosurgery has developed from convergence of micro laryngoscopic surgical technique theory and the mucosal wave theory of laryngeal sound production. Improvements in technology (i.e., laryngoscopes, handled instruments, and lasers), which in part arise from developments in more frequently performed minimally invasive surgical procedures, will probably facilitate the next generation of procedural innovations. The best methods of optimizing phonosurgical outcomes include making an accurate diagnosis, completing a comprehensive voice evaluation, providing sufficient preoperative therapy, carefully selecting patients to undergo phonomicrosurgical procedures, and requiring sufficient postoperative rest and therapy. Phonomicrosurgery will continue to evolve as a result of the interdependent collaboration of surgeons with voice scientists, speech pathologist, and other voice professionals.
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