Summary of Vocal Capabilities

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Vocal capabilities pattern matching — the most substantive blog post. Four patterns: (1) Vocal cord margin swellings (impairment at low volume, high pitch = lower right quadrant), (2) RLN paresis anterior branch (low pitch, low volume = lower left), (3) Vocal cord bowing (impairment at low volume across range), (4) External compression (impairment at all volumes, range restricted).

Describes roughness (R = diplophonia) and breathiness (B = air leak) patterns with specific quadrant onset. Vocal signature concept — each disorder has a characteristic pattern. Technique is “self-teaching”: new patterns discovered during endoscopy teach the examiner. Includes 19 references.

Links to downloadable handout: Secrets of Listening – 2020-01.pdf (24-page full-color booklet).

Migration note: Essential content for the Vocal Capabilities / Secrets of Listening pages. The handout link connects directly to the /vcp QR page. One of the richest educational posts on the site.

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