Story of patient Mary Marlboro — larynx removed for cancer, used electrolarynx then developed esophageal phonation. Voice = sound source + amplifying resonator (no vocal cords required). The two fundamental characteristics of voice: pitch and volume. Wind chimes metaphor. References the book.
Migration note: Part I “What is Voice?” or “Voice without Vocal Cords” page content.
Home›Clinical & Educational›Feminization Laryngoplasty — WPATH 2016 Presentation at 23rd WPATH Symposium, Amsterdam, July 20, 2016. Describes the five procedures then utilized to alter pitch: (1) Cricothyroid approximation (Thyroplasty Type I), (2) Vocal cord webbing / VFSAAC / Wendler Glottoplasty, (3) Laser reduction — CO2 (LAVA / Laser Glottoplasty), (4) Laser vocal cord tuning —…
Home›Clinical & Educational›“Nanomargin” Approach to Vocal Cord Tumor Surgery Challenges traditional cordectomy protocols (Remacle et al. 1999/2000, ELS). Proposes paradigm shift from wide surgical margins to precision “nanomargin” technique using modern HD chip endoscopes, NBI/selective color imaging, and programmable CO2 laser. “Orange peel surgery”: Peeling tumor tissue from underlying healthy structures using CO2 laser. Differential…
Home›Clinical & Educational›Vocal Cord Paralysis: Lateral Cricoarytenoid (LCA) Paresis Video post. Discussion with a colleague about vocal cord weakness — reviewing how to identify LCA paresis by focusing on the movement and position of the vocal processes. YouTube link. Migration note: Connects to the Neurolaryngology section (Part II Structural) and Part III Laryngoscopy.
Home›Clinical & Educational›Compensating for Hoarseness How natural compensation hides voice disorders during examination, both audibly and visually. Two examples: (1) TA muscle weakness — CT muscle compensates by raising pitch. Examiner removes compensation by asking patient to progressively lower pitch, revealing the bowing/flutter of the weak cord. (2) Mucosal swellings — patient raises volume at…
Home›Clinical & Educational›Video and the Voice Why video recording of vocal cords is essential — most vocal events happen too fast for live perception; stroboscopy needed to slow and reveal. Rigid vs. flexible endoscopy approaches. If patients can view video of their own cords, they can often assess whether their physician’s explanation makes sense. References…
Home›Clinical & Educational›“Nanomargin” Approach to Vocal Cord Tumor Surgery Challenges traditional cordectomy protocols (Remacle et al. 1999/2000, ELS). Proposes paradigm shift from wide surgical margins to precision “nanomargin” technique using modern HD chip endoscopes, NBI/selective color imaging, and programmable CO2 laser. “Orange peel surgery”: Peeling tumor tissue from underlying healthy structures using CO2 laser. Differential…
