Annual Vocal Physical : Part 4 - The Scope & Stroboscopy Exam
There are many different form of endoscopy. ENTs and laryngologists perform laryngoscopy, a scope that looks at the larynx (voice box). It’s important to recognize the two common types of laryngoscopy, as one is best suited for professional voice users.
A “scope” is shorthand for endoscopy - the medical term for putting a camera into a patient to examine them.
The two types of laryngoscopy are flexible and rigid.
The flexible scope goes in through the nose and drops down to the larynx. The rigid goes in through the mouth and looks down at the larynx. There are different sizes and different lights that may be used to provide unique information. The highest resolution, highest magnification, and most illuminated view are generally understood to be achieved with the rigid laryngoscope.
Rigid laryngoscopy
The rigid laryngoscopy is the largest and therefore carries the most light. It is painless and generally very quick. Most importantly, it is easily coupled with a special strobe light. This light will enable a slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration, which is vital for the voice exam.
Flexible laryngoscopy
This smaller, flexible scope passes through the nose. Given its smaller size, it provides a less illuminated, less detailed view of the vocal folds. Generally, only laryngologists pair this with a strobe light to assess vibration. ENTs tend to simply look with a straight light, missing most of the voice evaluation. Distal chip technology has been added to flexible scopes to add resolution and detail and some laryngologists use this for their exams.
The advantage of flexible laryngoscopy is an improved assessment of the musculature of the voice.
At times, doing both scopes is necessary to provide a complete assessment of vocal fold vibration and muscular engagement.
Understanding the different types of scopes and their purposes allows you to advocate for yourself, ensuring you have the appropriate scope for your concern.
If you are interested in booking a consultation at the Center for Vocal Health for your annual vocal physical we would love to see you in our offices to help you navigate your vocal health needs as a voice professional.
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