Laryngeal electromyography

Laryngeal electromyogragphy (LEMG) is an invaluable adjunct to laryngologic assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of voice disorders. It is easy to perform, well-tolerated, and presents minimal risks to patients. It is useful in the evaluation of numerous laryngeal disorders, allowing clinicians to differentiate among upper motor neuron, lower motor neuron, peripheral nerve, neuromuscular junction, myopathic, and mechanical disorders. It is also useful in establishing prognosis in laryngeal nerve palsies and for guidance during the injection of botulinum toxin in the treatment of spasmodic dysphonia. Judgements regarding when to use LEMG, selection of muscles to be studied, and the choice of EMG techniques depend upon a comprehensive history and physical examination. LEMG requires expert interpretation, taking the clinical scenario into account. A skilled electromyographer is an immeasurable asset to the voice care team.