Introduction
At the Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, we understand that your voice is a vital part of who you are. Whether you use your voice for speaking, singing, or other important daily activities, any changes or difficulties can significantly impact your quality of life.
This information sheet will guide you through what to expect at this appointment and how to prepare for your visit.
Why have you been referred to the Voice Clinic?
Your Speech and Language Therapist (SLT), GP or Doctor has referred you for a specialist assessment in our Multidisciplinary Voice Clinic.
The reason for the referral is usually to gain more information about the nature of your voice problem and to plan an appropriate management programme.
What is a Voice Clinic?
A Voice Clinic is a combined clinic run jointly by the Consultant Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon and a Highly Specialist SLT. The aims of our Voice Clinic are:
- To ensure an accurate diagnosis.
- To devise an appropriate management plan.
- To monitor progress.
Meet our team
Mr Tarun Sood, Consultant ENT Head and Neck Surgeon
Christina Hunter, Specialist SLT Head and Neck/ENT
Sarah Cullip, Highly Specialist SLT Head and Neck/ENT
Jenny Hunt, Clinical Lead SLT Head and Neck/ENT
What to expect
Firstly, the Consultant and SLT will ask you questions about your voice and discuss any intervention/treatment that you may have already had.
Following this, relevant examination will begin. This may include examination of your mouth, nose and neck followed by an endoscopy through your nose called Flexible Nasendoscopy and Stroboscopy.
What is Flexible Nasendoscopy?
Flexible nasendoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows examination of the throat and vocal cords using a thin, flexible scope that is passed through your nose. This tool is equipped with a light source and a camera, enabling detailed visualisation of the larynx (voice box) and surrounding structures.
What is Stroboscopy?
Stroboscopy is a specialist examination technique used with flexible nasendoscopy to assess the vibratory function of the vocal cords (vocal folds) during phonation (voice production). This procedure utilizes a strobe light through a flexible scope to create a slowed-down visual effect, allowing us to observe the subtle movements of the vocal cords in real-time.
The examination is also recorded allowing us to then show you the findings.
Why is Flexible Nasendoscopy performed?
Flexible nasendoscopy is commonly used to:
- Evaluate voice disorders (e.g., hoarseness, vocal fatigue)
- Diagnose conditions such as laryngitis, polyps and nodules
- Monitor changes in the larynx over time
- Guide treatment decisions (e.g., surgery, therapy)
Procedure Overview
- Preparation: A throat numbing spray may be applied to minimise discomfort based on your preference. The effects of the spray will last for an hour or so after you leave the clinic avoid hot drinks until the effects of the spray wear off.
- Insertion of the Nasendoscope: The consultant or SLT gently inserts the flexible nasendoscope through the nose, guiding it down the throat to visualise the larynx.
- Examination: The consultant and SLT will examine the vocal cords and surrounding structures on a monitor, taking note of any abnormalities. You will be able to breathe through your nose and mouth during the procedure and you will be asked to produce some sounds.
- Biopsy (if necessary): If any suspicious lesions are found, a biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis.
Conclusion
The procedure is very safe and typically takes about 5 minutes.
Benefits of Flexible Nasendoscopy
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is generally quick and well tolerated.
- Real-Time Visualisation: The vocal cords can be seen in motion, allowing for more accurate diagnosis.
- Versatile: It can be used in various clinical settings.
Risks and Considerations
Flexible nasendoscopy is considered safe, but some potential risks may include:
- Discomfort or a gag reflex during the procedure
- Nosebleed or throat irritation
- Infection (rare)
What to expect after your examination
- Results Discussion: The consultant and SLT will discuss their findings with you, and answer any questions you may have. This may include details on your vocal cord health and any identified issues.
- Follow-Up Instructions: Our team will give you specific advice based on their evaluation. This may include recommendations for good vocal health including lifestyle changes.
- Treatment Plan: Once a diagnosis is made, a personalised treatment plan will be discussed. This may involve voice therapy sessions with SLT, surgery, medication, or follow-up review in our voice clinic to monitor your progress.
- Questions and Concerns: If you have any questions or concerns after your visit, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic. We are here to help you on your journey to better vocal health.
Thank you for visiting the Voice Clinic. We are committed to supporting you in achieving optimal vocal health.
Contact Us:
The Speech and Language Therapy Department,
Therapy Hub
The Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Trust,
Lewsey Road,
Luton, LU4 0DZ
Tel: 01582497049
If you have any concerns or need advice about accessing NHS services, you can speak in confidence to the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 01582497990.
Or you can email PALS@ldh.nhs.uk
This leaflet can also be produced in large print, Braille and other languages on request.