A Standard Examination of the Human Voice
Standard Laryngeal Examination — An adequate assessment of the human voice, particularly pre- and post-surgery. Ideally two parts: audio recording and visual endoscopic examination including stroboscopy.
Audio examination parameters: Speech (10-second standard reading passage), Maximum phonation time at comfortable pitch, Lowest pitch (stepwise glide), Highest pitch (stepwise glide), Loud sounds (at low and high pitch), Soft sounds (singing “happy birthday” softly at low/medium/high pitch — reveals cord alignment and air leak), Vegetative sounds (cough and throat clear).
Endoscopy: Flexible and/or rigid endoscopy pre-op and optimally one year post-op. Stroboscopy at low, medium, and high pitch — tensioning of cords will alter laryngeal configuration. Supplemental: VHI or VQRL patient satisfaction survey.
Migration note: Strong candidate for a dedicated “Standard Examination” page or integration into the Vocal Capabilities / Part III section.
