Voice

Voice medicine

In a communication-driven world, the voice has major social and professional importance. Voice problems are common and can affect people very differently depending on their occupation.

When symptoms occur, we begin with comprehensive voice diagnostics. We assess possible congenital, habitual, strain-related or psychological causes and then determine the appropriate treatment.

Many voice disorders can be treated with medically prescribed voice therapy. In certain organic conditions, voice-improving surgery may also be appropriate.

Singers’ medicine

Professional singing places the highest demands on the voice. Medical care of the singing voice is therefore regarded as a distinct field of vocal arts medicine.

Our practice offers modern diagnostic methods such as stroboscopy, voice range profiling and voice analysis. Dr Ursmar Kleiner is a singer himself and brings this experience to the care of professional voices.

Phonosurgical procedures are only rarely necessary. When required, they can be performed indirectly or under anaesthesia depending on the findings.

Musicians’ medicine

Musicians need medical care that takes into account the specific physical demands of their instrument and profession. Wind players, for example, may develop oral, dental or laryngeal problems or allergic reactions to metals. String players often experience musculoskeletal complaints, and neurological problems can occur in all instrumental groups.

Hearing is particularly important. In addition to age-related changes, high sound levels in orchestras or from instruments can impair hearing. Preserving hearing as well as possible is therefore essential for musicians.

Conservative voice therapy

Acute inflammation

In acute inflammatory voice disorders, voice rest is the priority. Strained whispering and loud speaking should be avoided. Depending on the findings, mucolytic medication, humidifying and decongestant inhalations, anti-inflammatory medication or antibiotics may be used.

Functional and psychogenic voice disorders

Targeted voice therapy is often useful for functional voice problems. Psychological stress can also have a significant effect on the voice and should be considered in treatment.

Surgical voice treatment

Certain vocal fold changes – such as polyps, cysts, Reinke’s oedema or consequences of vocal fold paralysis – may require surgery. In selected cases, surgery may also be considered for a markedly weak ageing voice.

Depending on the findings, the procedure is performed under general anaesthesia with an operating microscope or indirectly with a curved instrument under endoscopic control. A particularly precise and tissue-sparing technique is essential.