Stroboscopy at Becker ENT & Allergy: Advanced Diagnosis Tool for The Voice
Advanced stroboscopy for detailed evaluation of the vocal folds and larynx.
- Slow-motion-like imaging of vocal cord vibration.
- Identification of lesions and subtle voice abnormalities.
- Evaluation by ENT and speech-language pathology specialists.
- Same-day or next-day appointments often available.
Important Medical Notice
The information provided below and throughout this website is presented for general educational purposes only and does NOT constitute professional medical advice. This information is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice and NO material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
At Becker ENT & Allergy, our team of experienced ENTs and speech language pathologists use stroboscopy to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans for patients experiencing voice-related concerns. Understanding the intricacies of this procedure can help patients feel more at ease and informed when seeking care for their vocal health.
What is Stroboscopy?
Stroboscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic technique that combines a rapidly flashing light source with endoscopy to observe the vocal folds during phonation (voice production). The strobe light emits flashes at specific intervals, creating an optical illusion of slow-motion movement, which enables clinicians to examine the vibratory behavior of the vocal cords in detail, giving a more specific understanding of their physiology and possible pathology.
Why is Stroboscopy Used?
Stroboscopy is utilized to assess various aspects of vocal fold function and to identify potential abnormalities. The procedure is particularly valuable for:
Types of Stroboscopy
There are two primary methods of performing stroboscopy, each utilizing different types of endoscopes:
Flexible Stroboscopy
This method employs a flexible endoscope inserted through the nasal passage to reach the larynx. It allows for a comprehensive examination of the vocal folds during various speech and singing tasks, making it suitable for dynamic assessments.
Rigid Stroboscopy
In this approach, a rigid endoscope is introduced through the mouth to visualize the vocal cords. While it provides high-resolution images, it is typically limited to sustained vowel sounds due to the positioning of the scope. It can be used once a diagnosis is established and the clinician wants to check up on that specific pathology in the future.
Preparing for Stroboscopy
- There is nothing special that needs to be done physically to prepare for a stroboscopy. You should come prepared to share your history of symptoms with your provider and any relevant medical information.
- If you are sick the day of your appointment, it is best to reschedule so the stroboscopy results are not skewed.
How is Stroboscopy Performed?
The stroboscopy procedure is typically conducted in an outpatient setting and involves the following steps:
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Patients undergoing stroboscopy may anticipate the following:
During the Procedure
- Mild Discomfort: Some individuals MAY experience slight discomfort or a gagging sensation during endoscope insertion, but the topical anesthetic helps alleviate these feelings, and some patients describe no discomfort at all.
- Brief Duration: The procedure typically lasts between 1 to 2 minutes.
After the Procedure
- Temporary Numbness: The effects of the topical anesthetic may persist for a short period, causing temporary numbness in the throat or nasal passages.
- Immediate Resumption of Activities: Most patients can return to their normal activities, including eating and drinking, shortly after the procedure.
- Discussion of Findings: The clinician will review the results with the patient and discuss any necessary follow-up or treatment plans.
“Today I saw Rebecca for a stroboscopy. She was so pleasant and immediately made me feel comfortable. She explained everything in detail and helped make a not so pleasant procedure bearable. She answered all my questions and was familiar with everything that I brought up. She explained the results of the procedure and presented different options for follow up. I was seen on time, which is very important to me and shows that she respects my time as I respect hers.”
— Carol Robinson
Why Choose a Voice Specialist?
Selecting an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) or speech language pathologist who is a voice specialist for stroboscopy ensures comprehensive evaluation and management of voice disorders. These specialists possess:
- Expertise in Laryngeal Anatomy: Their in-depth understanding of the complex structures of the larynx allows for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Access to specialized equipment, such as stroboscopy, enables precise assessment of vocal function.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration to ensure a holistic approach to voice care.
Selecting an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) or speech language pathologist who is a voice specialist for stroboscopy ensures comprehensive evaluation and management of voice disorders. These specialists possess:
Philadelphia Locations and Contact Information
South Street Office
1740 South St Suite 401 Philadelphia, PA 19146
Phone: (215) 671-6330
convenient locations in NJ & PA
Frequently Asked Questions
About Stroboscopy
Is stroboscopy painful?
Stroboscopy is generally not painful. Patients may experience mild discomfort or a slight gagging sensation, but most patients tolerate the procedure without problem. A topical anesthetic is often applied to numb the throat or nasal passages, making the procedure more comfortable.
How long does a stroboscopy procedure take?
The actually procedure typically lasts between 1 to 2 minutes. The entire appointment will be between 20-30 minutes which includes talking about your history and concerns, performing the exam, and going over the results.
Will I be able to speak normally after the procedure?
Yes, you can resume speaking immediately after the procedure. Some individuals may experience mild throat irritation or temporary numbness due to the anesthetic, but this usually resolves within a short period.
What conditions can be diagnosed with stroboscopy?
Stroboscopy is used to diagnose various voice and vocal fold disorders, including:
- Vocal nodules, polyps, and cysts
- Laryngitis and vocal fold swelling
- Vocal cord paralysis or paresis
- Reflux-related throat irritation (laryngopharyngeal reflux - LPR)
- Early-stage laryngeal cancer or precancerous lesions
- Neurological voice disorders, such as tremor or spasmodic dysphonia
Is stroboscopy covered by insurance?
In many cases, stroboscopy is covered by health insurance if it is deemed medically necessary for diagnosing or monitoring a voice disorder. However, coverage varies depending on the insurance provider. It is recommended to check with your insurance company or contact our office for assistance with billing and coverage questions.
How should I prepare for a stroboscopy appointment?
- There is nothing that needs to be physically done before a stroboscopy appointment
- You should come prepared to share your history and concerns with your provider, and any medical history
- If you are sick the day of your appointment, it is best to reschedule so the stroboscopy results are not skewed.
What is the difference between stroboscopy and regular laryngoscopy?
A laryngoscopy provides a basic visual examination of the vocal cords and larynx, but it does not capture detailed vibratory motion. Stroboscopy, on the other hand, uses a strobe light synchronized with vocal cord vibration to create a slow-motion effect, allowing for a more precise evaluation of vocal fold function and subtle abnormalities that cannot be seen on laryngoscopy. There is research that shows that a diagnosis can change as often as 50% of the time when a stroboscopy is used over a laryngoscopy alone.
Who should undergo a stroboscopy exam?
Stroboscopy is recommended for individuals who experience:
- Hoarseness or voice changes lasting more than two weeks
- Frequent vocal fatigue or strain
- A sensation of something stuck in the throat
- Difficulty speaking or reduced vocal projection
- A history of vocal fold injury or previous voice surgery
Can singers and professional voice users benefit from stroboscopy?
Absolutely. Stroboscopy is particularly beneficial for singers, actors, teachers, public speakers, and other voice professionals who rely on their voice for their career. The detailed imaging helps detect early-stage vocal fold issues that may impact voice quality, allowing for tailored voice therapy or medical intervention.
What happens after the procedure if an issue is found?
If stroboscopy identifies an abnormality, your voice specialist will discuss the findings and recommend a personalized treatment plan. This may include:
- Voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist
- Medication for inflammation or reflux management
- Lifestyle changes to improve vocal health
- Surgical intervention, if necessary, for vocal fold lesions or structural abnormalities