Diagnostic Visit
The initial visit to the Voice and Swallowing Center involves detailed history taking, including a review of relevant previous tests the patient has had that pertain to their complaint. Afterwards, the patient has a comprehensive physical examination of the throat and neck followed by a one or more of several diagnostic tests, again depending on the precise nature of the patients presenting symptoms and signs.

The possible tests the patient can have on their initial visit:

1. Transnasal Flexible Laryngoscopy (TFL): A way of examining the larynx and throat with a thin, flexible endoscope that is passed via the nose which permits a magnified view of the laryngeal structures and functions.

2. Laryngeal Video Stroboscopy

3. Sensory Testing: A way of determining a patients ability to protect their airway during a swallowing evaluation. A pulse of air is administered via a port, or opening, in a transnasally placed, thin, flexible endoscope, in order to elicit an airway protective reflex. With this test, one can precisely determine a patient's ability to protect their airway during a swallow. In addition, laryngeal sensory testing can be utilized to diagnose acid reflux disease.

4. Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing with Sensory Testing (FEESST)

5. TransNasal Esophagoscopy (TNE)