The feasibility of rigid stroboscopy in children.

Objective: Voice disorders in children are common but ways of their analysis are limited. We conducted a prospective feasibility study of rigid stroboscopy in children.

Methods: All children referred for voice analysis during the years 2002-2003 were evaluated including subjective perception of voice, voice recording, flexible or rigid laryngoscopy and stroboscopy. Children were prepared by an explanation and visual demonstration. Local anesthesia was introduced through inhalation of Lidocaine (2%) solution prior to examination. Stroboscopy was performed either by a 70 degrees rigid laryngoscope or by a 3.0 mm fiberoptic-flexible endoscope.

Results: Forty-two children were analyzed. Rigid stroboscopy was feasible in 31 children of whom 7 were under 10 years of age. Short phonation time (7), gag reflex (6), impaired view due to high and posteriorly inclined epiglottis (4) were the main reasons of failure.

Conclusions: Standard telescopic stroboscopy can be safely and effectively implemented in the majority of children over 10 years of age.