Dynamic Analysis Of Male "Extra-high Voice" Using Multi-row Detector Computed Tomography

Area of Science:

• Vocal pedagogy
• Laryngeal biomechanics
• Medical imaging

Background:

• Singers can produce vocalizations beyond the typical human range, termed extra high voices.
• The precise laryngeal kinematics during extra high voice production remain largely uncharacterized.
• Dynamic analysis of the larynx offers insights into vocal production mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze laryngeal movements during the production of extra high voices.
• To investigate the biomechanics of the larynx in singers exceeding normal vocal limits.
• To evaluate the utility of multi-row detection computed tomography (MD-CT) in visualizing these laryngeal dynamics.

Main Methods:

• An observational study utilizing multi-row detection computed tomography (MD-CT).
• Dynamic imaging of a male participant producing speech from low to very high frequencies (up to C7).
• Analysis of 3D laryngeal images captured at 10 frames per second over a 2-second acquisition period.

Main Results:

• Laryngeal elevation was observed as pitch increased from A3 to D5 (220-587 Hz).
• Posterior upward displacement of laryngeal cartilage occurred as frequency increased from E5 to B5 (659-988 Hz).
• Distinct laryngeal kinematics were identified in the E5-B5 frequency range compared to lower ranges.

Conclusions:

• Laryngeal movement patterns differ significantly in the E5-B5 frequency range during extra high voice production.
• Multi-row detection computed tomography (MD-CT) provides valuable visualization of laryngeal dynamics.
• MD-CT surpasses traditional methods like endoscopy for studying these specific laryngeal movements.