Modal analysis of a parameterized model of pathological vocal fold vibration

Computational models of vocal fold vibration are used to investigate the physics that governs speech. The effect of a polyp's mass, stiffness, position, and aspect ratios on the natural frequencies and modes of vibration of a vocal fold are studied using an in-house finite element code. Polyp mass has the most significant effect, damping vibration. The damping effect of the polyp's excess mass is mitigated by increases in stiffness and influence from the regions of the vocal folds which are fixed to cartilage. Distribution of mass into the glottis is found to maximize the damping effect of the polyp's excess mass.