Voice disorders

About

A voice disorder is a disturbance of pitch, loudness, or quality of the voice in relation to an individual’s age, gender, or cultural background. In the normal production of voice, the airstream is generated by the lungs. As the air passes through the larynx, the vocal folds vibrate, which results in the production of sound. The sound continues to travel through the upper vocal tract and is modified by the resonating characteristics of the pharynx and oral and nasal cavities.

Evaluation services

Videostroboscopy (LVS)—a technologically advanced system for viewing laryngeal anatomy and physiology, which allows clinicians to view and analyze vocal fold function including:

• stiffness
• irregularity of movement
• inappropriate closure

Computerized speech lab—a versatile speech-voice assessment and therapy instrument—provides objective data about:

• pitch
• loudness
• duration
• degree of hoarseness

The data derived from these systems allow clinicians to consult with otolaryngologists regarding a patient’s vocal dysfunction, pathology, and/or performance following surgery. The data also allow for the design of effective treatment programs for clients with various voice disorders.