Video Stroboscopy
What is Video Stroboscopy?
Video stroboscopy is a method of viewing and assessing the vocal folds and their surrounding structures. There are many ways of obtaining imagining, but for singers, video stroboscopy is the best!
The scope is a flexible or rigid rod with a high-speed camera and a strobe light. With just 3-4 seconds of sustained phonation-recorded with a microphone held against the neck–the strobe light will track the vocal fold vibration. The strobe and camera catch images at each stage of vibration thus creating an optical illusion of the vocal folds vibrating in slow motion. Keep in mind the folds can vibrate 1,000 times in one second.
Video stroboscopy is unique in showcasing the vibration and mucosal wave of the vocal folds, making it unmatched in displaying voice pathologies.
Other Voice Imaging Methods
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A flexible scope with fiber optic light is inserted through the nasal passage. It is easier to sing, as there is no scope in the mouth.
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A rigid scope is inserted into the mouth and comes in various sizes for pediatric patients. The oral endoscope may be more comfortable than the nasoscope as it simply rests in the mouth near the uvula.
When to Get Scoped
It is a good idea to get scoped even if you don’t notice any voice changes. This will establish a baseline that can be used to compare back to at any point in your vocal journey.
If you experience voice changes such as breathiness, loss of range (usually high notes), hoarseness, difficulty phonating, etc. scoping can help provide answers. Many of these symptoms are caused by allergies, sickness, and prolonged and/or high-impact voice use. Rest, drink plenty of water, and continue with moderate voice use while tracking these changes. If voice symptoms remain much longer than other symptoms make an appointment to see an ENT or laryngologist.
*Not medical advice
Sources
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Vocal Tract Visualization and Imaging
Updates on Endoscopic Laryngeal Imaging. Perspectives on Voice and Voice Disorders. Patel, Rita. (2012)