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.

• 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 Thayer Sataloff

Robert T. Sataloff, MD, DMA, FACS, is professor and chairman in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and senior associate dean for Clinical Academic Specialties at Drexel University College of Medicine. He is also adjunct professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University and Temple University; as well as on the faculty of the Academy of Vocal Arts. Dr. Sataloff is a professional singer and singing teacher and served as conductor of the Thomas Jefferson University Choir for nearly four decades. He holds an undergraduate degree in Music Theory and Composition from Haverford College, medical degree from Jefferson Medical College–Thomas Jefferson University, and doctor of musical arts in voice performance from Combs College of Music. He completed his residency in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery and fellowship in otology, neurotology and skull base surgery at the University of Michigan. Dr. Sataloff is chairman of the boards of directors of the Voice Foundation and the American Institute for Voice and Ear Research. He is editor-in-chief of the Journal of Voice and Ear, Nose and Throat Journal, associate editor of the Journal of Singing, and on the editorial boards of numerous otolaryngology journals. He has written more than 700 publications, including 40 books. His medical practice is limited to care of the professional voice and otology/neurotology/skull base surgery.