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Respiratory dynamics in phonation and breathing-A real-time MRI study
Louisa Traser1, Ali Caglar Özen2, Fabian Burk3
1Institute of Musicians' Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Germany; Department of Otolaryngology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany.
Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology
|November 23, 2016
Summary
Singers utilize distinct respiratory muscle coordination for phonation compared to normal breathing. The diaphragm and rib cage exhibit unique functional dynamics to control subglottic pressure during voice production.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Physiology
- Vocal Science
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The respiratory system is crucial for voice production, yet the functional relationships between the diaphragm (DPH) and rib cage (RC) during phonation remain unclear.
- Understanding these dynamics is essential for differentiating vocalization from normal breathing patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare respiratory dynamics during phonation versus normal breathing using dynamic MRI.
- To investigate the roles of the diaphragm and rib cage in controlling subglottic pressure for voice production.
Main Methods:
- Dynamic MRI of the respiratory system in 6 professional singers.
- Measurements taken during vital capacity breathing and maximal sustained phonation at varying pitches and loudness.
- Analysis of anatomical landmark distances in cross-sectional lung images.
Main Results:
- During normal breathing exhalation, the diaphragm and rib cage moved synchronously to decrease lung volume.
- During phonation, distinct functional units were identified, suggesting specialized coordination.
- These specialized units facilitate precise control of subglottic pressure for sustained voice.
Conclusions:
- Phonation involves unique respiratory muscle coordination distinct from normal breathing.
- The diaphragm and rib cage exhibit differential functional dynamics during singing.
- These findings highlight specialized respiratory control mechanisms essential for voice production.
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