Relation between voice quality and pathological vibratory patterns using high-speed digital imaging

Abstract

We analysed the vocal fold vibrations of 22 pathological larynges using a computer-assisted high-speed digital imaging technique. The parameters observed included symmetry, regularity, phase difference, glottal closure, amplitude, mucosal wave and periodicity difference. Voice quality was evaluated by a GRBAS system, and we examined the relation between vocal fold vibration patterns and voice quality. The intraexaminer correlation coefficient was high for the G, R and B scales. Vibratory patterns were classified according to the location of the lesion, severity of the disease, expiratory pressure and laryngeal modulation. Although there were no matches between a vocal fold vibratory pattern for one psychoacoustic impression of hoarseness, the characteristic vibratory patterns of these cases of R > or = 2.5 or diplophonia exhibited irregular glottal closure and periodicity differences. The characteristic vibratory pattern of vocal fry is a double or triple opening/closing phase, followed by a long closed phase.