Everything You Need to Know
A stroboscope is a diagnostic tool used to examine the voice box and vocal cords. It uses a rapidly flashing light to observe these delicate structures. With this tech, our ENT consultants can visualise the fine details and make accurate diagnoses at speed. A stroboscope might be just the thing that unlocks insights into your vocal health.
Laryngeal stroboscopy is used to create a slow-motion representation of the vocal folds (also known as vocal cords) within the voice box.
Before
Before you are referred for a stroboscopy, you’ll need to book an initial appointment with an ENT consultant. During this appointment, the doctor will assess your symptoms. It might be that they look down your throat with a bright light, arrange imaging, or test your vocal cords.
If they agree that stroboscopy is the only way to diagnose you, then they’ll arrange this for you on the same day as your initial appointment.
During
The patient usually undergoes topical anaesthesia to numb the laryngeal area, and a flexible or rigid endoscope is introduced through the nose or mouth to reach the larynx.
A stroboscope is connected to the endoscope, and its flashing light is synchronised with the frequency of the patient’s vocal fold vibration.
As the patient produces sound, the stroboscope’s flashing light captures the motion of the vocal folds. The apparent slow-motion effect created by the stroboscope allows clinicians to observe the vibratory pattern, symmetry, and mucosal wave of the vocal folds.
Laryngologists and speech therapists use the information gathered from the stroboscopic examination to assess the health and function of the vocal folds. This diagnostic tool can help identify abnormalities such as nodules, polyps, cysts, paralysis, or other conditions affecting vocal fold movement and vibration.
After
After the procedure has taken place, the doctor will discuss the initial observations and findings with you. They may provide some insights into the health and function of the vocal folds based on the stroboscopic examination. If any abnormalities or conditions are identified during the stroboscopy, they might recommend additional tests, imaging studies, consultations or procedures to further evaluate or treat the underlying cause of the voice disorder.
Depending on the diagnosis, your consultant might recommend specific treatments or interventions. This could include voice therapy, medication, surgical procedures, or a combination of these approaches. The goal is to address the underlying issue and improve vocal function.
Patients may be scheduled for follow-up appointments to monitor progress, assess the effectiveness of interventions, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. In cases where voice therapy is recommended, patients may be referred to a speech-language therapist specialising in voice therapy. Voice therapy involves exercises and techniques to improve vocal function, reduce strain, and enhance overall vocal health.
It’s essential for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare provider, ask questions, and follow any recommended treatment plans to achieve the best possible outcomes for their voice health.
Medically reviewed by Mr Jonathan Fishman - BM BCh (Oxon) BA (Hons) MA (Cantab) PhD MRCS (Eng) DOHNS FHEA FRCS (ORL-HNS) on 27/02/2024
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.