Video of the Human Voicebox in Action!

In honor of World Voice Day on April 16, 2017, I have created a new video showing how the voicebox is examined using a fiberoptic endoscope threaded through the nose. I created the first version of this video back in 2007 and given better and newer technology, I have decided to do a refresh including more info and examples. Of course, the video and audio quality is also way better compared to a decade ago. Check it out!

Continue Reading

Narrow Band Imaging Technology for Cancer Detection Now Available at Fauquier ENT!

Fauquier ENT now offers narrow band imaging (NBI) in the office to better detect cancer and other abnormal lesions in the throat. NBI is an endoscopic imaging technique whereby special filters are used to enhance visibility of vessels and other tissues on or near the mucosal surface. Specifically, it can better "see" dysplastic tissue including pre-cancerous lesions, cancer, and other abnormal mucosal lesions compared to normal light. The way NBI optically enhances light is by uti…

Continue Reading

Beatboxing Protective of the Vocal Cords?

Beatboxing is a popular vocal percussion technique that incorporates use of the entire vocal tract. Recently, research by Dr. Steven Simms (who I had the pleasure of working with briefly when we were both at Yale University in the 1990s) suggested that beatboxing techniques may actually protect against vocal cord injury. Unlike singing where most of the sustained energy is directed at the vocal cord level, beatboxing makes extensive use of the entire vocal tract, especially the muscles of…

Continue Reading

Alternative Digital Archival System for KayPentax Strobe System

As a long-time user of the chip-on-tip all-digital KayPentax strobe system, I can certainly vouch for its amazing clarity of visualizing vocal cord pathology . However, it's digital archival system to record, edit, and store video exams is to put it bluntly, subpar. Which is why I've ditched that system, and put together a different one based on the Macintosh using its free (and included) but extremely powerful iMovie software which puts KayPentax's system to absolute shame.…

Continue Reading

What is the Voicebox Doing When You Scream? Yodel?

In the same spirit of a recent TEDMED talk by Nate Bell and re-published on CNN Jan 12, 2012 whereby he performed various beatboxing noises while stroboscopy was performed, I decided to record a similar video with a person performing various unusual human vocalizations to see what happens. For those who don't know what stroboscopy is, click here . Such vocalizations recorded included various types of human screams and a yodel. Check it out here ...

Continue Reading

What is Vocal Cord Stroboscopy?

Stroboscopy of the vocal cords is a special exam whereby a scope is introduced down into the throat where the vocal cords can be directly visualized. Using a special light, the vibration of the vocal cords can be examined and allows identification of subtle pathology that can contribute to a raspy voice . The exam is recorded and can be played back at any speed to allow for careful analysis. Here is a YouTube video our office has made showing how this exam is performed!

Continue Reading