Characterization of the electroglottographic waveform: a primary study to investigate vocal fold functioning

Area of Science:

• Laryngology
• Speech Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Objective assessment of vocal fold functioning is crucial for diagnosing voice disorders.
• Electroglottography (EGG) provides a non-invasive method to analyze vocal fold vibration.
• Understanding EGG parameter variations across different voice types and conditions is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To objectify vocal fold functioning using electroglottographic (EGG) signal processing.
• To investigate EGG parameters in relation to voice intensity and frequency within the chest register.
• To compare EGG measurements between normal and pathological voice samples.

Main Methods:

• Processing of electroglottographic (EGG) signals from 7 normal and 12 pathological voices.
• Measurements conducted across varying voice intensity and frequency within the chest register.
• Reproduction measurements to assess the reliability and consistency of EGG parameter estimation.

Main Results:

• At least 5 measurements per intensity/frequency pair are necessary for reliable EGG parameter estimation.
• Averaged results over approximately 20 measurements revealed significant differences in some EGG parameters between distinct voice categories.
• Variability in results suggests a need for improved measurement protocols.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights the importance of sufficient measurement repetitions for accurate EGG analysis.
• Differences in EGG parameters were observed between normal and pathological voices, particularly at specific intensity/frequency points.
• Recommendations are made for refining the measurement protocol and adjusting parameters to enhance result consistency.