Vocal cord vibrations are so fast that you cannot observe them with the naked eye, even when a mirror or regular fiberoptic endoscope is used. Vibrating at an average speed of 250 to 350 cycles per second in the female and 100 to 150 cycles per second in the male, vocal cord motion during voice production can best be studied through the use of videostroboscopy. By interconnecting an endoscope, camera, stroboscopy light source, and computer platform, the examiner can easily and carefully analyze such rapid-fire vibratory activity in quasi-slow motion.

Videostroboscopy technology has markedly improved the identification and documentation of vocal cord pathologies, and it affords patient education about the existing problem and treatment recommendations. Videotaped or digital recordings are stored for playback review, and still photographs of the pre- and post-treatment findings are shared with referring physicians. At the Wayne State University Voice, Speech and Swallowing Center, videostroboscopy has been utilized for many years in the assessment of patients with benign vocal cord pathologies such as nodules and polyps, vocal cord trauma and paralysis, relux laryngitis, spasmodic dysphonia and laryngeal carcinoma.

Robert Meleca, MD, associate professor and specialist in laryngology, explains that videostroboscopy uses high-speed light impulses that are synchronized with the speed of vocal cord vibrations to produce slow-motion images for detailed appraisal of the anatomy and physiology of the vocal cords. Freeze frame and real time viewing alternatives permit close inspection of possible abnormalities, which might otherwise be overlooked with less sophisticated laryngeal examination procedures.

James Dworkin, PhD, professor and director of the center, reports that many of the patients who are referred for evaluation of their voice difficulties are professionals who rely on good communication skills in their daily job duties, including teachers, attorneys, ministers, singers and actors. Patients often present with persistent hoarseness that has not been thoroughly evaluated.

Videostroboscopy almost always elucidates possible underlying problems with vocal cord form and function, which in turn facilitates discussion of the results and treatment options with the referring physicians. Post-treatment examination using the same instrumentation helps to track patient progress and demonstrate any improvements obtained.

The Wayne State University Voice, Speech and Swallowing Center performs more than 1,000 videostroboscopy procedures each year. The centers are located at Harper University Hospital Professional Office building, Suite 510, and at the DMC Professional Office building on Commerce Road, two miles east of Huron Valley Hospital.