Voice Disorders Center of Birmingham

What is the Voice Laboratory?

A few patients have voice problems which remain after usual treatment has failed. Others are hoarse and the cause for this is not evident on routine examination. These cases are often referred to our voice laboratory.

Here we have special equipment that allows videotaping of the larynx. The laryngeal stroboscope in effect slows vocal cord movements down so that their vibration patterns can be studied. Computerized equipment (such as the Visi-pitch and Aerophone II) to assist with voice analysis and speech therapy is available. Special audio recordings of the voice are often obtained.

In unusual cases, we may consult with specialties such as neurology to perform other types of sophisticated testing; laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) is one example. Persons with vocal tremors such as spasmotic dysphonia may benefit from such studies and ultimately from injections of special medication like botulinum toxin (Botox) into the larynx.

These tests sound frightening and painful but are usually only awkward or mildly uncomfortable at worst. Information obtained from the voice lab helps the doctor, speech pathologist, and other members of the team provide better care to our patients.

What does an Otolaryngologist do?

An otolaryngologist is a doctor of medicine (M.D.) who specializes in disorders of the ears, nose, throat, sinuses and neck. The doctor may treat with either medications or surgery depending on the patient's condition.

After a thorough history taking and exam, it is often necessary to look at the vocal cords. This is done in the office in one of several ways: Indirect laryngoscopy is done by gently pulling the tongue forward and using a mirror to examine the voice box. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy uses a small flexible scope placed through the nose or a rigid one through the mouth to examine and sometimes videotape the larynx. A mild anesthetic sprayed into the nose or throat may be used. Almost everyone, except small children, may be easily examined. Young children who cannot be evaluated in the office may require this be done in the operating room under general anesthesia.

What does a Speech Pathologist do?

A speech pathologist is the professional who is trained to perform the non-medical evaluation of a voice disorder and, when indicated, initiate a plan to improve vocal function. In consultation with the otolaryngologist and, as needed, with other professionals such as singing teachers, the speech pathologist works with disordered voice patients much as a physical therapist works to rehabilitate an injured person.

In Summary

With the improved diagnosis provided by the voice laboratory and newer treatment techniques, including laser and microsurgery of the larynx, most patients can be helped toward a more nearly normal voice.

For more information about the voice lab, or to schedule an appointment with the Voice Disorders Center, please call (205) 933-5068. We are located at St. Vincent's Hospital, Building One, Suite 201 in Birmingham, Alabama 35205