Physicians refer for videostroboscopy to assess the detailed function of the vocal cords and larynx (voice box). Speech pathologists can perform videostroboscopy procedures for referring physicians to assist in the diagnostic process. Some vocal cord growths or abnormalities are not visible with a still light, thus a more comprehensive assessment is required. Studies have shown that the voice diagnosis can change half of the time using a scope with a strobe light rather than a still light (Cohen et al, 2015).

Videostroboscopy is a specialty voice medical test used to assess the vocal cords and the delicate vibration patterns and movements of the larynx (voice box) during speech or other vocal activities. It combines the use of a strobe light and a video camera to create a slow-motion view of the vocal cords in action, allowing for detailed examination of their function and structure.

Key Points of Videostroboscopy:

1. Strobe Light: A strobe light is used to “freeze” the vibrations of the vocal cords at specific intervals. This allows the rapid movements of the vocal cords, which occur at high speeds during speech or singing, to be captured and viewed in slow motion. The light flickers at a set rate, matching the frequency of the vocal cord vibrations. 
2. Video Camera: A video camera is used to record the images of the vocal cords. These images are displayed on a monitor for the physician to analyze.
   
3. Purpose: This procedure is typically used to evaluate vocal cord abnormalities, such as:
   
   • Voice disorders (e.g., hoarseness, vocal fatigue, or changes in voice quality)
   • Vocal cord lesions (e.g., nodules, polyps, cysts)
   • Vocal cord paralysis or weakness
   • Structural issues or diseases of the larynx

4. Procedure: During the test, a flexible or rigid endoscope is inserted into the throat through the nose or mouth. The endoscope contains a tiny camera and light that transmits real-time images of the vocal cords to the monitor. The strobe light synchronizes with the movement of the vocal cords, allowing the clinician to analyze the detailed motion.
   

Benefits:

• Non-invasive: It’s a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure.
• Real-time analysis: The physician can observe the vocal cords’ function during phonation (speech or vocalization), providing insight into potential problems.
• Detailed Visualization: The slow-motion view helps in diagnosing conditions that might not be visible in normal motion.

Common Use Cases:

• Diagnosis of voice disorders in professional voice users like singers, teachers, or public speakers.
• Identifying causes of persistent hoarseness or unexplained voice changes.
• Pre-surgical planning for patients needing vocal cord surgery.

In summary, videostroboscopy is an important diagnostic tool for examining the function and health of the vocal cords and detecting any abnormalities that may affect speech or voice quality.

About the Author: Cara Bryan, MA, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist and voice specialist in Tampa, Florida. She evaluates and rehabilitates voice, communication difficulties, cognitive disorders, upper airway disorders and swallowing difficulties at her private practice, South Tampa Voice Therapy. Cara is a classically trained soprano with a major in vocal performance from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She has spent her career working in medical speech pathology in the hospital setting, ENT offices, and now in private practice. Cara mentors on voice, upper airway, business and private practice through www.southtampavoicetherapy.com. You can follow her on Instagram and FaceBook.