Improving voice assessment using ultrasound imaging of vocal folds
Official title: Ultrasound Elasticity Imaging of the Vibrating Vocal Folds
Funded at Rochester Institute of Technology · NIH-11083555 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, gentle ultrasound method to look at how your vocal cords move and stretch while you talk, helping doctors get a clearer picture of any voice problems you might have and improving how they can help you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rochester Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | May 3, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $148,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R16DC022229-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083555 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing voice disorders, particularly those in professions that rely heavily on voice production.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any voice disorders or those who are not involved in vocally demanding professions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new ultrasound elastography technique to assess the vibrations of the vocal folds in real-time. By using non-invasive imaging, the study aims to provide better visualization of the vocal folds' internal anatomy and their elastic properties. This approach allows patients to give biofeedback during the assessment, enhancing the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment planning for voice disorders. The goal is to create a more effective and less invasive method for evaluating vocal fold function compared to traditional techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for individuals with voice disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using ultrasound imaging for assessing vocal fold pathologies, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Richards, Michael Scott — Rochester Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Richards, Michael Scott
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.