Overview

This is a didactic slide lecture geared toward physicians, voice therapists, and voice teachers which gives the groundwork for a correct diagnostic and treatment procedure in the evaluation of singers.

This product is a reissue of an original Voice Foundation videotape. As such, recording quality may vary or may not match modern standards and, while much material is still valid, some surgical and therapy techniques and equipment presented may be dated. Generally, however, the products represent a valuable historical perspective on the evolution of voice care.

Audience

Primary Subject: Voice
Secondary Subject: Audiology / General
Audience Level: Professional

• Part I:
  Dr. Sataloff begins by providing an in-depth description of the anatomy of the vocal mechanism and the vocal folds. Then he presents and elaborates upon a comprehensive list of what should be taken in the patient's medical history:
  • 1. Gives examples of breathing technique in order for correct support assessment
  • 2. Presents the results of vocal aging and the value of the rehabilitative process
  • 3. Stresses the importance of separating acute and chronic problems and their associated illnesses
  • 4. Enumerates the common types of vocal complaints and their various etiologies
  • 5. Indicates the importance of obtaining a correct past training and professional singing history; schedule of physical/vocal exercises and warm-up exercises
  • 6. Lists the common patterns and causes of voice abuse
  • 7. The importance and effectiveness of a proper weight loss program
  • 8. Enumerates medical conditions which may manifest as vocal problems
  • 9. Describes the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux laryngitis
  • 10. Describes the effects of hormonal imbalances
  • 11. The importance of screening for heavy weight loss
  • 12. The effects of stress and anxiety
  • 13. Exposure to irritants
  • 14. The effects of various drugs
  • 15. The consumption of certain foods before singing
  • 16. Obtaining a surgical history and the potential vocal complications of surgery
• Part II:
  Dr. Sataloff continues his in-depth discussion:
  • 1. Components of the physical examination
  • 2. Common organic problems, pulmonary disease, allergy, and their treatment
  • 3. Consequences of voice rest
  • 4. The importance of understanding the skills and training of a singer
  • 5. Treatment with various types of drugs
  • 6. Treatment of serious voice abuse
  • 7. Treatment of vocal fold hemorrhage, laryngeal trauma, spasmodic dysphonia, and laryngeal cancer

About The Author

Robert Sataloff, M.D.

Robert T. Sataloff, M.D., D.M.A., F.A.C.S., is a Professor and Chairman, Department of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery and Senior Dean for Clinical Academic Specialties, Drexel University College of Medicine. He is also Adjunct Professor in the departments of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University, the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University, and on the faculty of the Academy of Vocal Arts.