Fourier descriptor based diagnosis of vocal-fold partial asymmetry from high speed image sequences

There is strong interest in fast, accurate automated examination and detection of pathologies in vocal-fold function. Such systems could assist in detecting abnormalities during screenings, monitor treatment progress, and compare results after therapy or surgical intervention. It has been shown that analysis of the vocal-fold area as a function of time can be beneficial in the detection and diagnosis of pathologies related to control of sustained tone production. However, this method is less effective in detecting asymmetric function due to paralysis or obstruction in the laryngeal area. Here, we present an alternative approach to aid the diagnosis of asymmetric vocal-fold motion.