Videostroboscopy

Swallowing and Neurological Rehabilitation (SNR) provides high-definition videostroboscopy voice evaluations for patients across northeastern Oklahoma. This advanced diagnostic procedure allows for detailed, slow-motion visualization of vocal fold vibration and is essential in identifying the underlying physiological causes of voice disorders.

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Our speech-language pathologists collaborate closely with local otolaryngologists (ENTs) to provide comprehensive assessment and coordinated care for individuals experiencing voice changes, hoarseness, vocal fatigue, chronic throat symptoms, or reduced vocal performance.

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What Is Videostroboscopy?

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Videostroboscopy pairs a high-resolution endoscope with a synchronized strobe light to allow visualization of the vocal folds in slow motion.

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Because the vocal folds vibrate hundreds of times per second during speech, their movement cannot be accurately evaluated with standard continuous light endoscopy alone. The strobe light creates the appearance of slowed vibration, enabling detailed assessment of:

• Vocal fold closure patterns

• Mucosal wave and vibratory symmetry

• Tissue pliability

• Laryngeal tension

• Structural abnormalities

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The procedure is typically performed using a rigid oral scope for optimal image clarity. In certain cases, a flexible nasal endoscope may be used to allow evaluation during connected speech or singing.

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Conditions We Evaluate

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Videostroboscopy is used to assess and guide treatment for a variety of voice and upper airway disorders, including:

• Vocal nodules and polyps

• Vocal process granulomas

• Vocal fold bowing

• Vocal fold paralysis or paresis

• Muscle tension dysphonia

• Chronic laryngitis

• Chronic cough

• Inducible laryngeal obstruction (paradoxical vocal fold motion)

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This evaluation is particularly important when voice symptoms persist despite rest, medication, or general therapy.

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What to Expect During Your Evaluation

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During the procedure, you will be asked to produce various sounds and pitch ranges so the clinician can evaluate vocal fold function under different demands.

For singers or professional voice users, portions of the evaluation may include singing tasks to assess performance-level voice use.

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The procedure is brief, well tolerated, and provides immediate visual insight into vocal fold function.

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Coordinated Medical Care

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If anatomical concerns are identified, we communicate directly with your ENT or facilitate referral when appropriate. In some cases, videostroboscopy findings help determine candidacy for medical interventions such as:

• Vocal fold injections

• Surgical management of lesions

• Medical management of inflammation or reflux

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Our role is to ensure that therapy recommendations align with medical findings and that care remains collaborative and evidence-based.

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Measuring Progress

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In many cases, both pre- and post-treatment videostroboscopy assessments are recommended to objectively measure response to therapy. This allows us to document changes in vocal fold closure, vibratory function, and overall laryngeal physiology.

Treatment recommendations may include:

• Vocal Function Exercises (VFE)

• Semi-Occluded Vocal Tract Exercises (SOVTEs)

• Resonant voice therapy

• Laryngeal tension reduction techniques

• Behavioral therapy for chronic cough

• Vocal hygiene education

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Our goal is not only symptom improvement, but measurable physiological restoration whenever possible.