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We diagnose and treat voice disorders. Evaluations include history, examination and fiberoptic study of the throat.
Fiberoptic exams allow direct view of the vocal cords and associated tissues in order to determine the cause of the hoarseness, such as a nodule, paralysis or acid reflux.
Video recording is usually used to help in this assessment. Speech evaluation and treatment may be required.
Steps in evaluation and treatment:
History
Symptoms such as hoarseness, sore throat, "lump in throat" feeling, frequent throat clearing.
Symptoms may be due to:
Voice abuse and frequent throat clearing
Vocal cord weakness and/or paralysis
Vocal cord granuloma
Laryngeal Papillomatosis
GERD-reflux esophagitis
and "pachyderma"
Exam
Neck and larynx exam for vocal cord motion problems and lesions.
Thyroid palpation for nodules and goiter.
Studies
Imaging x-rays of larynx such as CT and/or MRI
Cine-esophagram to evaluate swallowing function.
Modified Barium Swallow (MBS) to study aspiration.
Fiberoptic video laryngoscopy with recording.
Treatment
Voice/speech therapy
Anti-reflux medication and change of eating habits.
Micro-laryngoscopy and removal of nodules, cysts and polyps.
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