| Abstract: | The myoelastic-aerodynamic model of phonation implies that aerodynamic factors are crucial to the evaluation of voice function. Subglottal pressure and mean flow rate represent the vocal power source. If they can be related to the magnitude of the radiated sound power, they may provide an index of vocal efficiency. Methods of evaluating the aerodynamic characteristics associated with the ventilatory and laryngeal systems are critically discussed, and normative aerodynamic values for use in diagnosis and physiologic investigations are presented. Measurements having excellent time resolution of the glottal flow wave and of pressure changes in the vicinity of the larynx itself demonstrate the importance of study vocal tract acoustics. |
