Speech Language Pathology

Every day we rely on our ability to communicate with others. When that ability is compromised, there is significant impact on quality of life. Our speech-language pathologists specialize in disorders of communication, cognition, and swallowing, helping to regain the necessary skills to participate in daily living. Our speech and swallowing therapists specialize in the following:

• Neurologic impairments (stroke, traumatic brain injury).
• Dysphagia (swallowing disorders).
• Voice disorders (including laryngectomy).
• LSVT LOUD, a Parkinson's disease-specific voice program.
• Fluency disorders.
• Progressive neurologic disorders (such as ALS, Parkinson's disease and MS).

Unique to this region, are our swallowing disorder (dysphagia) programs, including the following assessment and treatment modalities:

• Modified barium swallow studies.
• Fiber optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES).
• VitalStim® therapy for swallowing disorders.

Videostroboscopy Evaluations

Videostroboscopy is a high tech method of recording and observing the motion of the vocal cords. Videostroboscopy’s state-of-the-art technology enables viewing and identifying vocal cord conditions that were previously not visible. This technology assists the physician and speech pathologist with planning medical care. It allows for earlier detection of laryngeal disease, small growths such as nodules or polyps, vocal cord paralysis, structural abnormalities, broken blood vessels or scarring. The equipment also permits functional voice disorders to be diagnosed, and can be used to document patient performance before and after surgery, rehabilitation, radiation, or pharmaceutical intervention.

How it Works

A scope with a tiny video camera and strobe light is placed in the patient’s mouth. Video equipment, a rapid flashing light source (stroboscope) and endoscope are combined with a computer as the basic tools used to perform the examination. The camera projects a moving image of the vocal cords, frame by frame, onto the computer monitor. Videostroboscopy makes the vibrations of the vocal cords appear to be seen in slow motion, thus allowing abnormalities to be viewed more clearly. These images are immediately retrieved as a video recording or as a still photo. From the visual images, an accurate diagnosis can be made and appropriate treatment initiated.

The videostroboscopy team includes Barbara Guillette, MD, a board-certified otolaryngologist (a physician who specializes in the care of the ear, nose and throat), and the speech-language pathology team member, who hold specialized certifications in videostroboscopy.