Analyzing Vocal Fold Frequency Dynamics Using High-Speed 3D Laser Video Endoscopy.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics of voice production
• Vocal fold dynamics
• Acoustic phonetics

Background:

• Understanding vocal fold vibratory motion is crucial for diagnosing voice disorders.
• Previous research has primarily focused on lateral motion, with less attention paid to vertical motion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate changes in lateral and vertical vibratory motion across anterior, middle, and posterior vocal fold sections.
• To analyze these changes in relation to vocal frequency variations and gender differences.

Main Methods:

• High-speed videoendoscopy with a custom laser endoscope was used to measure vocal fold surface dynamics in 23 healthy adults.
• 3D parameters including amplitude and opening/closing velocities were computed for lateral and vertical motion.
• Linear mixed model analysis examined differences across pitch levels, motion axes, vocal fold positions, and gender.

Main Results:

• Superior surface vertical motion exceeded lateral motion, particularly in males.
• Posterior vocal fold closing velocity was greater at low pitches.
• Vocal fold closing dynamics varied significantly across anterior, middle, and posterior locations.

Conclusions:

• Vertical motion of the vocal fold's superior surface is a significant factor in voice production dynamics.
• Assessing vertical motion provides a more comprehensive understanding of vocal fold function.