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High-Resolution Manometry as a Tool for Biofeedback in Vertical Laryngeal Positioning
Thays Vaiano1, Fernando A M Herbella2, Mara Behlau1
1Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Department, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; CEV-Centro de Estudos da Voz, São Paulo, Brazil.
Journal of Voice : Official Journal of the Voice Foundation
|November 30, 2019
Summary
High-resolution manometry (HRM) biofeedback significantly improves singers' ability to lower their larynx during vocal exercises. This technique offers real-time visualization for better vocal tract control and singing training.
Area of Science:
- Vocal pedagogy
- Speech-language pathology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- A low vertical larynx reduces musculoskeletal tension, aiding vocal fold vibration crucial for singers and those with dysphonia.
- High-resolution manometry (HRM) tracks upper esophageal sphincter position, serving as a surrogate for laryngeal location and potential biofeedback.
- This study investigates HRM's efficacy in biofeedback for controlling vertical laryngeal position.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of high-resolution manometry (HRM) as a biofeedback tool for controlling vertical laryngeal position in singers.
- To determine if HRM biofeedback enhances singers' ability to manipulate laryngeal height during vocal tasks.
Main Methods:
- Ten professional singers (50% male, mean age 28) performed larynx-raising and lowering tasks with an HRM transnasal catheter.
- Participants repeated tasks with real-time visual feedback of their laryngeal position via an upper esophageal sphincter color plot on a computer screen.
Main Results:
- Median downward laryngeal excursion increased from 2.0 cm without biofeedback to 3.1 cm with biofeedback (P=0.03).
- Median upward laryngeal excursion showed a non-significant increase from 0.2 cm without biofeedback to 0.5 cm with biofeedback (P=0.4).
Conclusions:
- Singers demonstrated improved laryngeal vertical movements, particularly larynx lowering, when utilizing HRM biofeedback.
- HRM biofeedback provides singers with real-time visualization of laryngeal position, facilitating vocal tract adjustments and enhancing singing training.
