The evaluation of voice in elderly patients

Results of voice analysis in 96 elderly patients are presented. The objective of the study was to evaluate dysphonia and its morphologic conditions. Videolaryngostroboscopic (VLSS) examination distinguished between oedematic and atrophic form of senile dysphonia. Morphologic evaluation of the vocal fold mucosa with the use of light microscopy (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the clinical diagnosis. Evaluation of aerodynamic factors of the larynx function, particularly MPT and VVI, suggested hyperfunctional and hypofunctional modes of the voice formation in patients with the larynx oedema and in patients with atrophic changes, respectively.