In the 1970s to 1980s, Japan was a world leader in terms laryngology in terms of basic research on histology, physiology, and pathology, including the body cover theory and laryngeal EMG studies, which improved phonomicrosurgery as well as the understanding of the mechanism of voicing. These basic works contributed to the development of phonosurgery. Framework surgery was also invented in Japan and has since spread throughout the world.
From the 1990s, Western countries, particularly the USA, began to produce innovative technologies as well as modern basic science using molecular biology and genetics. Innovation in phonomicrosurgey included the development of several new types of equipment, including CO2 and angiolytic lasers, new injectable materials such as hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylappatite, new materials for shim in thyroplasty, such as Gore-Tex and titanium, and microflap techniques for vocal fold lesions.
It is important to always remain informed about new information in the world and to develop innovative technology based on basic research, in order to improve the presence of Japanese laryngology in the future. The greatest advantages of Japan are the spirit of challenge and the scientific environment.
