Voice & Strobe Tests
The ExcelENT of Alabama Voice Lab specializes in state of the art diagnostic and therapeutic services to individuals who present with a variety of voice disorders and vocal symptoms. Complete voice and swallowing evaluations, voice and swallowing treatment and visualizations of the larynx and swallowing function are performed by Carleen F. Ozley, M.S. CCC-SLP. She is a licensed speech language pathologist with many years of experience in the specialized area of Laryngeal Video EndoStrobscopy (LVES) and Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). These exams are reviewed by Dr. J. Christopher Davis and a plan of care is recommended on individual exam results.
Laryngeal Video EndoStroboscopy allows us to observe the appearance of the vocal cords and how they move. Abnormal vocal cord vibration is a major contributor to voice problems. Visualization provides a detailed description to determine if any pathology is present.
Stroboscopy uses a flashing light to create a slow motion view of the vocal cords allowing the identification of possible lesions/masses and/or other abnormalities in vocal cord movement.
The diagnostic information is important in planning specific an efficient voice treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a voice evaluation?
A complete medical and voice case history is obtained from a patient report. The patient will answer questions regarding the onset date and duration of the specific voice problems and complete questionnaires. The voice quality will be perceptually analyzed using the Digital Strobe Voice Analyzer where the patient speaks into a microphone and the voice is acoustically measured for quantitative and objective data.
What happens during a LaryngealVideoEndoStroboscopy exam?
The voice therapist will place a very small flexible scope into your nasal passage or the scope will be placed into your mouth for a telescopic view of your larynx while it is in motion. Video and still pictures will be obtained for patient’s review at the conclusion of the session. A numbing agent may be administered for patient comfort if needed. Most patients tolerate this procedure with minimal discomfort.
How long does the voice evaluation and exam take?
The entire evaluation will take about 60 minutes. However, the total time the scope is inserted is approximately 1-3 minutes.
When will I receive the results?
Following strobe completion, Dr. Davis and Ms. Ozley will review the results of the exam with the patient. They will initiate a plan of care, which may include voice therapy, medication prescriptions, follow up referrals and / or surgical intervention. Your referring physician will receive a copy of the report upon completion.
How do I need to prepare?
There is no preparation required for the exam. You may eat or drink as you wish. You do not need anyone to drive you since there is no sedation included.