Ventricular Phonation (Plica Ventricularis)

Ventricular phonation happens when the ventricular folds, also called “false vocal folds,” compress and squeeze over the true vocal folds. Ventricular folds can’t vibrate strongly enough to make a loud sound.

Symptoms of Ventricular Phonation

People with ventricular phonation may have a voice with the following qualities:

• Severe dysphonia (abnormal voice)
• Low pitch
• Roughness
• Strain

Causes of Ventricular Phonation

In many cases, false vocal fold compression occurs because the true vocal folds are stiff and can’t vibrate well. In these cases, the false vocal folds attempt to compensate for the true vocal folds. In extreme cases, the ventricular folds may actually vibrate themselves and become the sources of sound rather than the true vocal folds.

Diagnosing Ventricular Phonation

Diagnosis begins with a discussion about symptoms and medical history. Using non-invasive techniques that may include laryngoscopy, voice specialists will identify any altered voice quality, pitch, loudness, or vocal effort that impairs communication or reduces quality of life.

Treatment for Ventricular Phonation

When true vocal fold vibration is possible, voice therapy can be helpful to decrease excess compression of the false folds and improve voice quality.

Why Choose Columbia

Columbia University’s Center for Voice and Swallowing specialists will work with you to make a quick, accurate diagnosis and begin an effective treatment plan. Our evaluation will include an exam with state-of-the-art diagnostics to see the vocal folds and determine the root cause of your condition. Once we understand the problem, treatment will include a combination of therapies provided by our expert team.