Many speech-language pathologists see patients during the initial stages of voice and resonance disorders, and often aren't certain how to navigate the symptoms. This multimedia self-study provides current best practices and evidence-based solutions. Clinical and instrumental pathways vital for differential diagnosis of neurogenic voice and resonance disorders (congenital, acquired, and progressive) are reviewed. Vocal fold paralysis and velopharyngeal incompetence (VPI) co-occurring with TBI and CVA, as well as spasmodic dysphonia and differential diagnosis from Parkinson’s, MS, ALS, etc., are key discussions. Current evidence-based practice patterns for behavioral and medical management of congenital, acquired, and progressive neurogenic voice and resonance disorders are also addressed.

Learning Outcomes
You will be able to:

• describe commonly-available and specialized diagnostic tools used by physicians and speech-language pathologists to differentially diagnose voice and resonance disorders
• identify when it is appropriate to refer for more extensive medical assessment of voice and resonance disorders
• choose the best clinical path for patients with vocal fold paralysis by considering evidence from trial therapy and recognized medical interventions
• identify whether current behavioral methods are indicated for neurogenic disorders of the larynx
• describe the benefits of behavioral and prosthetic management of velopharyngeal incompetence

 View the Table of Contents [PDF]