An asymmetric smooth contour two-mass model for recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis

Abstract

Irregular vocal fold vibrations are assumed to be a major cause of hoarseness. A common clinical condition presenting with hoarseness is a unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis (RLNP). In order to explain high-speed video recordings of clinical RLNP, RLNP-type vocal fold vibrations are simulated by extending the well known two-mass model (2MM) to an asymmetric smooth-contour two-mass model (SC2MM). Polynomial interpolations form a smooth surface over the lumped elements of the 2MM. Laryngeal asymmetry is accounted for by introduction of an asymmetry coefficient and an anterior commissure angle which models a variable glottal closure insufficiency. Compared to the 2MM, the SC2MM yields a smaller glottal volume flow and is more stable in critical parameter constellations of RLNP-like conditions. It is able to model the vocal fold dynamics during a glottal closure insufficiency.