Using Laryngoscope-Mounted Microphones for Voice Measurements

What is it about?

Miniature microphones mounted on laryngeal endoscopic cameras fixed to laryngoscopes are commonly used during laryngeal examinations, yet they have received relatively little scientific attention. In this tutorial, we examined how differences in laryngoscope insertion among subjects affect captured voice signals. Using data from adult subjects, we found that when the vocal signal is captured with such a microphone fixed to a rigid laryngoscope at a mouth-to-microphone distance greater than 9 cm, the effect of inter-individual insertion variability on sound pressure level is less than ±2 dB (95% CI) — small enough to be clinically negligible. With appropriate calibration, laryngoscope-mounted microphones can therefore provide reproducible acoustic voice measures during rigid laryngoscopy, supporting more standardized voice assessment in clinical practice.

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Why is it important?

The article provides important information and practical guidance for improving the reproducibility of voice examinations and measurements in clinical practice, with worldwide applicability. It is intended for laryngologists, voice pathologists, vocologists, as well as companies developing videolaryngoscopic equipment.