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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
10:13
Hemi-laryngeal Setup for Studying Vocal Fold Vibration in Three Dimensions
Published on: November 25, 2017
[Glottal and supraglottal configuration during whispering]
1Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Poliklinik für Hör-, Stimm- und Sprachheilkunde. fleischer@uke.uni-hamburg.de
Laryngo- Rhino- Otologie
|January 16, 2007
Summary
Whispering involves varied vocal fold configurations and reduced epithelial forces compared to normal speech. This suggests whispering is suitable for postoperative communication when performed with low effort.
Area of Science:
- Laryngology
- Speech Science
- Vocal Fold Physiology
Background:
- Understanding vocal fold behavior during whispering is crucial for voice disorder management.
- Assessing the trade-off between communication and vocal fold health during whispering is important, especially postoperatively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare glottal and supraglottal configurations during whispering versus habitual phonation.
- To estimate the epithelial force exerted on vocal folds during whispering.
Main Methods:
- 100 patients with voice disorders underwent flexible videolaryngoscopy and stroboscopy.
- Patients produced vowels and counted to 10, both voiced and whispered, at varying loudness levels.
- Glottal adduction and supraglottal configurations were assessed and compared between phonation and whispering.
Main Results:
- Significant interindividual variations in glottal and supraglottal configurations during whispering were observed.
- Two primary glottal patterns emerged: vocal processes adducted (cartilaginous triangle or 'kissing processes') or abducted (ligamentous and cartilaginous triangle).
- Increasing loudness during whispering led to either narrowing or widening of glottal and supraglottal structures.
Conclusions:
- Whispering exhibits diverse glottal and supraglottal configurations.
- Despite potential vocal fold contact, the absence of vibration in whispering reduces epithelial forces.
- Whispering can be a safe communication method postoperatively if performed with low effort and adherence to instructions.
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