Beneficial for individuals who suffer from:

	Hoarse, raspy or breathy voice quality
	Increased effort when talking or singing
	Loss of voice with no apparent illness
	Reduced vocal ability, pitch or volume in speaking or singing
	Fatigue - voice tires easily
	Chronic or recurrent neck aches, headaches and throat pain, with no illness
	Habitual throat clearing, coughing
	Neurological disorders of the voice

New technology
North Mississippi Medical Center’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center provides advanced technology in voice examination and treatment.

How it works
North Mississippi Medical Center offers state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment that videotapes vocal cords using a strobe light that captures the visual image and enlarges it on a computer monitor to show in-depth detail.

Evaluations can be performed conjunctively by the otolaryngologists at Ear, Nose and Throat Physicians of North Mississippi, P.A., and NMMC’s Speech Pathology team to provide interdisciplinary assessments and treatment plans, or by the speech pathologist only if referred from another otolaryngologist. The results of the evaluation are stored on videotape and a photograph of the vocal cords is available for documentation along with the written assessment.

The improved imaging allows for more accurate diagnoses of functional voice disorders and earlier detection of vocal cord/laryngeal disease because of improved visibility of the larynx and vocal cords.

Typical patients

	Aerobic instructors		Public speakers
	Auctioneers		Ministers
	Broadcasters		Singers
	Cheerleaders		Teachers
	Coaches

Vocal tract imaging may also be used to assess and treat deficits in palatal and pharyngeal wall movement found in neurological disorders, cleft palate or other velopharyngeal insufficiency. A Flexible Endoscopic Examination of Swallowing (FEES), which assesses the laryngeal and vocal cord functioning during swallowing, can also be performed with this equipment.

What to expect
More efficient patient care is NMMC’s ultimate goal in providing these additional services. The correct diagnosis can prevent unnecessary surgery, speed recovery and prevent complete loss of voice.

Evaluation results and ongoing progress reports are sent to the referring physician, and follow-up treatment will be recommended as necessary with a speech therapist. NMMC’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center’s team can provide follow-up treatment, or refer the patient to a therapist closer to home if needed. NMMC will file Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance for our patients.

For more information
Physician or nurse practitioner's referral is required.  For more information about this advanced voice therapy technology, call (662) 377-7215.

Location
North Mississippi Medical Center
Longtown Medical Park
Outpatient Rehabilitation Center
4381 South Eason Boulevard
Tupelo, MS 38801

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