Recent studies in the anatomy of the ventricular bands and of the thyro‐arytenoid muscles, and physiologic researches in the mechanics of the larynx have compelled changes in concept of voice formation.
These studies have revealed the presence of structures which have been overlooked which impart to the false vocal cords an independent motility and an action antagonistic to that of the thyro‐arytenoid muscles; and which actively alter the conformation of the Sinus Morgagni. These studies stress the hitherto unemphasized importance of the function of the suspensory mechanism of the larynx, and the interrelation of the motor mechanisms of respiration and voice formation.
Clinical studies prove that ventricles of the larynx play an important rôle in the formation of the human voice. Filling of the ventricles by disease processes which do not in any wise impair the motility of the true vocal cords or their freedom to vibrate, nevertheless results in complete or high‐grade aphonia and dysphonia. Similar disorders are associated with disease of the ventricular bands. These studies indicate the need of extensive researches in the mechanism of the voice; for they contradict much that has been written and dogmatically taught on the subject of the voice.
