Hospital opens voice clinic

LDS Hospital has opened a new, state-of-the-art specialized voice clinic that offers advanced treatment for patients who suffer from a wide spectrum of voice disorders.

The new clinic features equipment that allows for more sophisticated evaluation than previously available. Digital video stroboscopy, for instance, shows clinicians a clear view of the patient's vocal fold structure and function, including wave movement.

Flexible endoscopy allows for direct visualization of the pharynx, as well as the larynx.

Patients can see a digital video playback of their examination to understand how their voice functions and learn to manage their own voice care. Specialized software measures and analyzed pitch and range, volume and quality and then helps us adjust and improve them.

They also teach self-management to improve long-term outcomes, says voice therapist Anna Siciliano. "This new clinical allows us to make very accurate diagnosis of voice disorders and develop a therapy program that's customized to each patient."

Patients with a history of hoarseness, vocal fatigue, voice loss or any other condition where changes have occurred in voice production can benefit from the clinic, LDS Hospital officials say.

The clinic also treats patients who need voice therapy after medical and surgical interventions and patients who use their voices professionally.

For more information about the clinic or to schedule an appointment, call the clinic at 801-408-5489.