Videostroboscopy

Advanced Voice Evaluation

At Atreus Medical & Surgical Associates, we offer videostroboscopy as a simple procedure that allows our team to evaluate how your vocal cords move while you speak. Using a small camera and a special light, it creates a slow-motion view of the vocal folds to help identify changes that may affect your voice. This test is commonly used to evaluate persistent voice concerns and helps guide an accurate diagnosis.

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What Is A Videostroboscopy?

A videostroboscopy is a detailed voice evaluation that helps us understand how the vocal cords work during speech. During this process, a thin, flexible camera is used along with a strobe light to observe the vocal folds in motion, creating a slowed down image for a more precise look at how the vocal cords open, close and vibrate. By revealing subtle differences in movement and tissue appearance that may not be noticeable during a routine examination, this test can help explain the source of symptoms such as hoarseness or vocal fatigue. The information gained is then used to create a personalized approach to diagnosis and care.

How A Videostroboscopy Is Performed

Performed by our team in the office, a videostroboscopy usually takes only a few minutes. To begin, a small camera is gently passed through your nose and guided to the back of the throat so your provider can view your vocal cords. A topical numbing spray may be used to help keep you comfortable during the exam.

Once the camera is in place, you’ll be asked to make simple sounds, speak or hold certain pitches while a special stroboscopic light is used to capture your vocal cord movement in slow motion. This allows your provider to carefully assess how your vocal folds come together and vibrate as you use your voice. After the exam is complete, the camera is gently removed, and you can typically return to your normal activities right away.

Why A Videostroboscopy Is Beneficial

A videostroboscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool that provides a highly detailed view of how your vocal cords function during speech. This level of precision helps your provider better understand the cause of your voice concerns and is often an important step in evaluating persistent or unexplained voice changes. Other benefits of this comprehensive, diagnostic testing include the following:

  • Provides a detailed, slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration and movement
  • Helps identify voice issues that may not be visible during a standard exam
  • Provides insight into conditions affecting the vocal cords including nodules and inflammation
  • Supports accurate assessment of hoarseness, vocal strain and other voice changes
  • Helps determine the most appropriate treatment options for your needs
  • Allows monitoring of vocal cord healing and progress over time
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FAQs About Videostroboscopy

Before undergoing a videostroboscopy, it’s natural to have questions about the exam and what to expect. To help you feel more comfortable and confident, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions patients ask about the procedure:

Is a videostroboscopy painful?

Most patients describe the sensation felt as mild pressure. A topical numbing spray is often applied inside the nose to help minimize discomfort as the small flexible camera is inserted.

The entire exam is usually brief, often taking only a few minutes once the camera is in place. Your appointment may be longer overall, but the actual imaging portion is typically fast and efficient.

No special preparation is required, as patients can eat, drink and take medications as normal unless your provider gives you specific instructions. It may also be helpful to arrive ready to speak or perform simple voice tasks during the exam.

You may feel slight pressure in the nose or a brief sensation as the camera passes through the nasal passage. Once in place, you will be able to breathe and speak normally. You may be asked to make sounds, speak or hold certain pitches so your vocal cord movement can be evaluated.

Your provider will review the findings with you shortly after the procedure. If additional review is needed, results may be discussed at a follow-up visit, along with recommended next steps for treatment or further evaluation.

Yes, this procedure is considered to be very safe, as it uses a small, flexible camera to visualize the vocal cords.

REQUEST An Appointment Today

If you are experiencing ongoing hoarseness, voice changes or other throat-related concerns, a videostroboscopy can help provide a clearer understanding of what may be causing your symptoms. Our team at Atreus Medical & Surgical Associates is here to evaluate your voice concerns and provide compassionate, guided care. Call our office at (864) 800-0100 or request an appointment online today to take the next step toward improved voice health.

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Personalized ENT, Pulmonary, Speech Pathology & Hearing Care Close To Home

Let’s start your healing journey.

Whether you are dealing with persistent breathing concerns, chronic cough, sinus symptoms, allergies, hearing changes, sleep apnea, voice concerns or swallowing difficulties, the Atreus Medical & Surgical Associates team is here to help. Our independently-owned practice provides advanced, personalized specialty medical care in Seneca and Powdersville, SC, with treatment plans built around your symptoms, health goals and everyday comfort. Request an appointment today for clearer answers and lasting relief.