The University of Michigan Voice Disorders Research Program encompasses a broad range of both basic science and clinical research. The common goal of these endeavors is: to further the understanding and treatment of voice disorders through biomedical research. Working closely with our clinical voice care programs in the U-M Division of Laryngology, Rhinology and General Otolaryngology (LaRGO) and at the Vocal Health Center, research investigators are positioned for valuable and important transfers of information back and forth from the research laboratory to the front lines of clinical care.

One current basic science focus of investigation is paralyzed vocal folds (also called vocal cords). This disorder can cause serious voice, swallowing or breathing problems. There currently is no reliable way to restore movement to a paralyzed vocal fold. In collaboration with the U-M Program for Neurology Research and Discovery, we are actively investigating the fundamental biology of vocal fold paralysis and ways to enhance regeneration of injured laryngeal or other nerves. Our prior clinical research has also measured the impact of vocal fold paralysis upon a patient’s voice-related quality of life (V-RQOL), and the benefits of treatment. V-RQOL , which can be defined as how your voice quality affects your day to day life, is a concept that was first presented and published in the medical literature through our studies here at the University of Michigan. Understanding V-RQOL remains a clinical research focus for our team.

These and many other related areas of investigation are ongoing. We are currently in an active campaign to raise research funds, and your support is vital to the success of the U-M Voice Disorders Research Program. For more information about how you can support U-M voice disorder research, contact Amanda Thatcher at (734) 936-8003 or athatche@med.umich.edu.


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