University of Pittsburgh Voice Center
Diagnostic Services
- Voice evaluation offers an assessment of the patient's
techniques and patterns
of vocal use.
- Voice recording and analysis includes quantification of
the
voice signal with respect to pitch, loudness, quality,
and variability, as well as, measurement of the acoustic
parameters and breathing dynamics.
- Video stroboscopy is a sophisticated
video technique enables doctors to view and,
analyze the vocal folds in slow motion. Since the vocal
folds vibrate 200 times per second, this often
allows doctors to find otherwise undetectable problems.
- Dual pH esophageal monitoring measures the
amount and frequency of the flow of gastric contents
into the esophagus and larynx over a 24-hour period.
This allows for the diagnosis of, and guides the proper
treatment for, reflux laryngitis.
- Laryngeal electromyography is an assessment of
the electrical activity of the laryngeal muscles.
- Vocal performance assessment allows our staff to
evaluate vocal function in the healthy voice for later
use as a baseline measure. This information, including pitch
range, intensity range, and voice quality measures, is then
available for measurement of improvement with training,
medical-legal purposes, and assessment of recovery after
vocal injury.
- Tracheotomy decannulation evaluation is available for
those seeking second opinions about the necessity of tracheotomy
tubes and the options for removing them.
- Electroglottography (EGG) records the pattern of vocal
fold closure, allowing detailed analysis of vocal fold content.
- Emergency care, including on-site emergency
consultations
are available to vocal performers. This allows our staff to
and treat vocal problems immediately, often at the patient's
performance or rehearsal location.
- Evaluation of the aging voice includes special
assessments of various voice disorders associated with aging.