Video Laryngeal Stroboscopy is the gold standard for evaluating voice disorders and is completed by a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who specialized in voice function and care. The VLS assessment provides direct visualization of the larynx (voice box), vocal cords, and surrounding structures, giving valuable information pertaining to laryngeal/voice health. It can be difficult to obtain detailed information regarding the vocal cords themselves, as they are very small structures that vibrate hundreds of times per second. The video laryngeal stroboscopy allows the SLP to have an enlarged, detailed view the vocal cords vibrating frame by frame and with the appearance of slow motion to better evaluate voice function and help to ENT physician provide an accurate and detailed diagnosis.
This procedure is minimally invasive and requires no preparation by the patient. Before the procedure, the patient will complete a questionnaire with questions pertaining to the larynx and voice. During the procedure, a small metal rod will be placed in the patient’s mouth at the bump or the hard palate a few inches into the mouth. A camera and light sits on the end of the rod, both of which are pointing down toward the larynx, perpendicular to the rod. Once visualization of the larynx is achieved, the patient will be asked to complete a variety of short vocal tasks or sounds. Once a sufficient variety of laryngeal postures are obtained, the rod will come out and the procedure will be over. The entire VLS procedure lasts approximately 1 minute. Upon completion of the procedure, the video will be reviewed by the SLP and the ENT physician to determine the status of the patient’s laryngeal health and direct their plan of care. The entire evaluation is video recorded and available to the patient. The VLS assessment is a pivotal addition to the overall ENT evaluation.
