“false vocal folds”
Above the vocal folds are, also in pairs, the pocket folds (Plicae vestibulares), which are also called “false vocal folds”. Under special circumstances, these can also be used for vocal training, but this results in a rougher, more compressed sounding voice.
Laryngeal endoscopy
If the vocal folds are to be examined, this is usually done by means of a laryngoscopy. A laryngoscope is inserted into the throat, through which the doctor can either directly or indirectly (depending on the device used) view and assess the larynx. For more specific questions, a stroboscope can also be used. This is a light flash device that makes it possible to assess the oscillation sequence of the vocal cords more precisely. In addition, a laryngograph can be used to record how the vocal cords vibrate.
Diseases of the vocal fold
In addition to the Reinke’s edema mentioned above, the vocal folds can also be affected by various other diseases. In laryngitis, the vocal folds are typically reddened and swollen, which changes their oscillation pattern. This results in the characteristic hoarse, dark voice sound of this disease.
Furthermore there are: which all represent benign thickenings of the vocal folds. They are usually also noticeable by hoarseness and/or a changed voice, sometimes combined with a feeling of pressure in the throat. They can be well cured either by vocal exercise treatment or surgery. A not very common but serious disease is vocal fold carcinoma, which usually only becomes noticeable in advanced stages with symptoms similar to those of the above mentioned diseases.In the worst case, the diagnosis of vocal fold carcinoma requires removal of the entire larynx.
- Vocal fold polyps,
- Vocal fold nodules and vocal fold cysts,
Significance of the vocal folds in artificial respiration
The vocal folds are also of great importance in endotracheal intubation (airway protection). The tube must be placed directly between the two vocal folds, through the glottis, to ensure correct positioning and successful ventilation. A sure sign that the tube is in the correct position is when you see it disappear between the vocal folds. Both placement and control are performed under laryngoscopic vision.
