You may have noticed a slight change in your voice, a hoarseness, right? Maybe when you sing a song or speak a little louder, your voice doesn't come out as clearly as it used to. Today we're going to talk about a very important, special test that doctors use to find out exactly what's causing these things. This is called Videostroboscopy. Although the name may sound a little strange, it's actually very simple.
Simply put, what is Videostroboscopy?
Videostroboscopy is a special camera test that looks at how your vocal cords are working. Imagine that these vocal cords are located inside our throat, in a part called the larynx. When we speak, sing, or shout, these vocal cords vibrate at high speed. This vibration is what produces sound.
But this vibration is so fast that our normal eyes cannot see its movement. Just like we cannot see the blades of a fast-spinning fan separately. So in this Videostroboscopy test, a thin camera and a special light (strobe light) are used to create a slow motion video of that fast movement for the doctor. This allows us to see very clearly whether your vocal cords are vibrating properly, whether there is any small tumor or lesion on them, or whether there is any abnormality in their movement.
In what situations is this test necessary?
There are several situations in which your doctor may recommend this test. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Symptom or condition | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Hoarseness | A hoarse, heavy voice that has been present for several days. If this is persistent and not due to a cold, this can help determine the cause. |
| Vocal cord lesions or polyps | These are small, non-cancerous (benign) lumps or bumps that can cause changes in your voice. They can be clearly seen with this test. |
| Difficulty swallowing (Dysphagia) | This test is sometimes helpful in finding the cause of difficulty swallowing food and drink. |
| Vocal cord paralysis | A condition in which one or both vocal cords do not function properly. This can cause the voice to become very weak and breathing difficulties to occur. |
| Difficulty breathing | Sometimes breathing difficulties can be caused by a problem with the vocal cords. It is important to find the cause. |
Who is doing this test?
This is usually done by a doctor who specializes in the ears, nose, and throat. As we all know, this is done by an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) doctor .
- Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist): What we usually call an ENT doctor. He has knowledge about any disease related to the throat, ear, and nose.
- Laryngologist: This is an ENT doctor who has received advanced training in the larynx and vocal cords. This is the top specialist in voice-related problems.
- Speech-language pathologist: In some cases, a speech therapist who trains the voice and treats speech-related problems may also be present during this test.
How should I prepare before the test?
This is the best part. This test doesn't require much preparation. Because you're not completely anesthetized (put to sleep), you don't need to fast or do any other special preparation. You can go to the doctor's office when you're scheduled to see him and have this test done.
However, if this test is being performed on a young child, they may be a little scared. In such a situation, taking something with them, such as a favorite toy, can help calm them down.
What happens during the test?
This test can be done on an outpatient basis, meaning without having to stay in the hospital. It usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Let's see what happens step by step.
1. A numbing medicine is applied: First, the doctor will put a numbing medicine inside your nose. This may be a spray. This will make you feel less of the camera that will be inserted next. After a while, this numbing will also move to your throat. So you will not feel any discomfort.
2. Wearing a microphone: A small microphone is worn around your neck to record your voice.
3. Camera Insertion: Next, the endoscope , a thin, flexible tube with a camera, is carefully passed through your nose and into the back of your throat. Remember, your nose and throat are numb, so you won't feel this.
4. Asking you to make sounds: Now the doctor will ask you to make different sounds like "ah..." "e...". He will videotape how your vocal cords vibrate when you make those sounds.
5. Removing the camera: After taking the necessary videos, the doctor carefully removes the camera. That's it!
What should I be concerned about after the test?
After the test is over, it may take an hour or two for the effects of the numbing medicine applied to the nose and throat to wear off.
The most important thing: Don't eat while your throat is still sore. This can cause a sore throat. So, drink only liquids like water until the sore throat goes away. You can eat after the sore throat goes away and you feel normal.
Is there any risk in this?
This is a very safe test. When performed by an experienced, qualified doctor, there is very little chance of any problems. This is because the instrument does not even touch your vocal cords. Therefore, there is no pain after the test.
How long does it take to get results?
In most cases, the doctor will be able to talk to you about the results as soon as the test is done. They may be able to find out what is causing your problem right away. If further tests or treatment are needed, the doctor will explain what to do next.
When should I see a doctor?
Some voice-related conditions, such as vocal cord paralysis, can be serious if not treated quickly. Therefore, seek medical advice immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- If symptoms such as loss of voice and difficulty swallowing are increasing day by day.
- If you feel shortness of breath or wheezing.
- If you are making a whistling sound when breathing.
In such a situation, immediately go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Take-Home Message
- Videostroboscopy is a safe, painless camera test to check the function of your vocal cords.
- This is a great help in finding the exact cause of problems such as hoarseness and voice changes.
- This test is done while you are awake, and it takes very little time.
- There will be no major discomfort after the test. The main thing to remember is to not eat until the test is over.
- If you have a persistent change in your voice, difficulty swallowing, or breathing, be sure to talk to your doctor about it.
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