Videolaringoestroboscopia: una técnica para visualizar las cuerdas vocales

Abstract

Classically, the laryngologists have based the study of the voice problems on the indirect examination of the vocal cords by means of a larynx mirror. However, this examination only considers the gross respiratory movements of the vocal folds, i.e., abduction and adduction. To analyze the problems responsible for voice disorders, the small vibratory movements of the vocal cords should be assessed. Nowadays, the stroboscopic examination of the larynx is the best way to analyze the vibratory pattern of the vocal folds during phonation. The vocal folds are illuminated by short light flashes of the same frequency of the vibrations in a synchronic or asynchronic way, in order to visualize the mucosal vibration in slow motion.  Laryngeal stroboscopy gives the opportunity to examine every subject at different pitch, intensity, and quality of voice. Several parameters may be assessed, including fundamental frequency, glottic closure, phase and amplitude symmetry, and also the characteristics of the mucosal wave.

The present workshop is primarily aimed to describe the examination methodology used in a clinical otorlaryngology setting. A large number of normal and pathologic examinations will be discussed.