Dr. Burckardt will perform a comprehensive history and physical exam as relevant to your specific concern. If indicated, a flexible or rigid videostroboscopy will be performed to better evaluate your throat

A videostroboscopy is a state-of-the-art technology which facilitates the identification of various vocal cord conditions and abnormalities. It provides a magnified view of the larynx, and simulates slow-motion vibration of the vocal cords. This procedure is the gold-standard in laryngological diagnostic care. We are happy to be one of the only centers in the state to offer this technology.

The examination takes only a matter of seconds to minutes and is comfortable enough to not require sedation.

All examinations are recorded. Following completion of the exam, you and your family will be able to review the results together with Dr. Burckardt. 

A comprehensive history and physical exam will be performed. If indicated, a videostroboscopy will then be performed to better evaluate your voice box (larynx). A videostroboscopy is a state-of-the-art technology which facilitates the identification of various vocal cord conditions and abnormalities. It provides a magnified view of the larynx, and simulates slow-motion vibration of the vocal cords. This procedure is the gold-standard in laryngological diagnostic care. At Kentuckiana ENT, we are happy to be one of the only facilities in the state to offer this technology. Depending on the findings from the stroboscopy, a diagnosis and treatment can be determined right away. Further evaluation with laboratory studies, swallow studies, or CT scans may also be indicated. 

If you have had a previous office laryngoscopy that was normal, but still have concerns, you can be seen for a videostroboscopy. Although reflux is a common diagnosis for hoarseness, many patients are given this diagnosis when there are other etiologies of their hoarseness identified on videostroboscopy. A stroboscopy exam can not only identify vocal cord lesions, it can also assess for stiffness of vocal folds, indicative of scar or loss of pliability related to phonotrauma. There are also voice disorders related to coordination of laryngeal muscles that may only be identified by a formally trained laryngologist. 

A videostroboscopy can be performed with either a rigid or flexible laryngoscope. ​

If a rigid laryngoscope is used, a thin metal camera is placed on your tongue. The rod uses a 70 degree camera to view your vocal cords. A topical numbing spray (cetacaine) is sometimes used prior to laryngoscopy.  

If a flexible laryngoscope is used, Dr. Burckardt will apply a topical numbing (4% lidocaine) and decongestant (phenylephrine) spray into your nose. The flexible laryngoscope is then passed through one nasal passage to view the vocal cords.  

During the laryngoscopy, you will be asked to perform a variety of vocal tasks in order to better understand the mechanics of your vocal cords. The procedure is not painful and generally lasts less than 1 minute. No sedation is required.

The health of your vocal cords is our number one priority. Many voice professionals and students will visit our office for an annual stroboscopy and checkup. It is important for us to have a baseline understanding of the condition of your vocal cords. If you develop voice problems later, we will be able to compare the exams to determine if there has been any structural change. We can also discuss vocal health and hygiene and help you to meet your vocal needs more appropriately. 

If you are a professional voice user struggling to meet your vocal needs in anyway - we can help. Whether it's the quality of your voice, recurrent vocal fatigue, or pain when speaking, we can perform a thorough evaluation and offer solutions for your specific problem. 

The treatment of hoarseness depends on the cause:

• Some cases can be managed with appropriate vocal hygiene including hydration, rest, reflux, and allergy optimization
• ​Some cases will require voice therapy
• Some circumstances will require phonomicrosurgery, laser, or larygneal frameworks surgery
• ​​Some neurological conditions require Botox injection (botulinum toxin) into the vocal folds
• Some conditions will require injection of fillers into the vocal folds 

We are happy to provide all of the above treatment options at Kentuckiana ENT.  Dr. Burckardt will discuss treatment options that are best suited for you once a diagnosis has been made.

Complications from laryngoscopy are uncommon. The biggest risk of the procedure is the risk of undergoing general anesthesia. Complications from laryngoscopy include:

• Temporary sore throat
• Chipped, damaged, or broken teeth. Dr. Burckardt uses tooth guards to prevent this complication.
• Superficial cuts inside the mouth or throat.
• Temporary changes in taste or numbness of the tongue.