Assessment of vocal cord function and voice disorders

Abstract

The evaluation of laryngeal function and voice is a multidisciplinary examination composed of a carefuland directed history, perceptual analysis of the voice, and physical examination of the larynx using indirect and direct laryngoscopy. There are additional diagnostic testings that can be performed which include aerodynamic measurements, objective acoustic measures of voice, and videostroboscopy. Over the past decade, there has been an expansion of voice-specific clinics which are generally composed of laryngologists and speech and language therapists. The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the fundamental components of the laryngeal examination including laryngoscopy and stroboscopy as well as discuss common voice disorders.