Biomedical subjects

R J Heuer

Publications and source records attributed to R J Heuer.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed1996

Respiratory and glottal efficiency measures in normal classically trained singers.

Respiratory and glottal efficiency measures were collected from a pool of 40 classically trained singers with normal larynges. All singers had > or = 3 years of formal classical voice training and were active professional solo classical singers. Mean flow rates were obtained from all subjects to assess glottal efficiency. Additionally, maximum phonation times and phonation quotients were obtained from a subset of the singers. Pulmonary function test data on forced expiratory volume, forced vital capacity, and forced expiratory flow were obtained for all subjects. Results were compared with published normal values, not specifically derived from trained singers, used commonly in voice laboratories. Differences were found, suggesting the need for separate normative data to be used for evaluation of the vocal athlete.

Adult↗

PubMed1996

Intrasubject variability of objective voice measures.

Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of voice disorders necessitate the need for accurate and reliable objective voice measurements. There are many instruments commonly used to analyze voice data. Many, if not most, of these instruments have not been adequately tested for reliability or consistency. This study evaluates the intrasubject variability of the objective voice measurements from two commonly used voice analysis instruments. The study also presents data correlating subjective mood states, room temperatures, sleep times of the subject, time since last meal, and hydration levels to the various acoustic measures. Several weak but significant correlations were obtained and are discussed. Guidelines for the appropriate use of these instruments are described.

Adult↗

PubMed1996

Superior laryngeal nerve paresis and paralysis.

Superior laryngeal nerve paresis and paralysis are relatively common but often difficult to diagnose with certainty. They are most commonly caused by viral infections, though other etiologies must be considered. A thorough history and physical examination, including strobovideolaryngoscopy and laryngeal electromyography, are needed for definitive diagnosis. It is essential to establish the diagnosis accurately to differentiate an apparent superior laryngeal nerve paresis from other conditions, such as myasthenia gravis. Laryngeal electromyography is used to confirm clinical impressions, as a guide for therapy, and as one measure of recovery. In our experience, accurate and early diagnosis assure the best phonatory outcome by directing therapy that will prevent or eliminate compensatory vocal abuses, which may themselves lead to even more serious vocal injury.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1996

Neurogenic stuttering: further corroboration of site of lesion.

Cases of neurogenic stuttering have been reported in the literature throughout the past century. Site(s) of lesion(s) have been documented usually by association of symptoms, EEG studies and occasionally by computed tomography (CT). The authors present three cases in which the site(s) of lesion(s) are documented by CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and SPECT. This study supports previous findings of neurogenic stuttering following either bilateral diffuse lesions or a unilateral lesion. In at least one case, the actual site of the lesion would have been missed without the use of SPECT testing. EEG studies were not helpful in identifying the site of the lesion.

Adult↗

PubMed1995

Laryngeal mini-microflap: a new technique and reassessment of the microflap saga.

Vocal fold surgical technique has advanced substantially because of increased knowledge regarding anatomy and physiology of phonation and because of technological improvements. However, many new techniques have been based on anecdote and "common sense," largely because there is no good experimental model for vocal fold surgery since the human is the only species with a vocal ligament. Consequently, our earlier pronouncements require careful reexamination especially as new research adds to our fund of knowledge. Review of the principles and results of laryngeal microflap surgery suggests that there may be important shortcomings in the technique. A new mini-microflap technique appears better, as does limited mucosal resection. This is a preliminary report, and further investigation is needed.

Humans↗

PubMed1995