The voice assessment is performed as a team by the Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist and the Speech therapist, which involves the following:

• The Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist performs a comprehensive ear, nose, throat, head and neck evaluation.
• During the examination of the vocal cords, state of the art equipment (Kay Pentax Stroboscopy system with a distal chip flexible laryngoscope) is utilised for the structural and functional assessment of the upper airways and vocal folds.
• Direct laryngoscopy through nasoendoscopy and videostroboscopy are carried out. During the flexible nasoendoscopy and laryngoscopy the patient is able to phonate relatively normal.
• A rigid 70° fibre optic scope and a flexible distal chip scope are utilised during laryngeal stroboscopy. The vocal fold edge and mucosal wave is more visible with videostroboscopy.
• In both examinations the image is shown on a monitor. This allows the patient a visual of his/her larynx.
• Images are stored to compare pre- and post treatment pictures.
• The Speech therapist will carry out an auditory-perceptual voice assessment and evaluate phonatory-respiratory efficiency.
• Voice recordings of speaking voice and singing voice (where applicable) are made for acoustic analysis and to monitor improvement.
• For professional singers a singing assessment by our Singing voice specialist will be recommended, during a later consultation.
• Laryngeal electromiography (EMG) can be performed, during a next consultation, in collaboration with our Neurologist, to confirm the presence of vocal fold nerve paralysis or paresis and to determine prognoses.
• If necessary referrals are made to other appropriate medical specialists like a Gastroenterologist, Neurologist and Pulmonologist.
• In cases of referrals from other Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists or Speech therapy colleagues, patients will be referred back with a report for further management.