770 patients affected by squamous cell carcinoma of the vocal cords, classified as T1a (U.I.C.C. TNM - P978) were studied retrospectively by the Head and Neck Oncology Cooperative Group. Several such studies have demonstrated the substantial equality of results, in terms of survival, obtained by the two common therapeutic approaches (radiotherapy and cordectomy). On the other hand, from a functional point of view, radiotherapy undoubtedly offers the best outcome. Site of origin has never been considered a possible prognostic factor for such cordal neoplasms; such factors could possibly make the choice between treatments significant. Therefore, the present study evaluated tumors, separating them by the anterior, middle and posterior third of the vocal cord and taking into consideration local check-up as a function of therapy. Local check-up, in terms of Relapse Free Survival (R.F.S.) was 83% at 10 years and no significant difference was observed between the different treatment modalities. Moreover, the site of origin did not appear relevant to prognosis. More accurate and prospective studies should be encouraged so as to assess the value of such data.