Medical Care of Voice Disorders

Abstract

Voice disorders are common and may be particularly troublesome for singers, actors, and other serious vocalists. Since the 1980s, the standard of medical care for patients with voice disorders has improved dramatically. Techniques of history-taking and physical examination have become much more sophisticated over the last few decades. The consequences of systemic disorders upon voice function has been recognized, and interdisciplinary voice teams have evolved to provide comprehensive voice care. Medical interventions and surgical techniques have improved substantially, and new instruments have allowed more precise surgery. Understanding and treatment of vocal aging has improved markedly. This chapter provides an overview of state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment.