[Measuring the voice field in general ENT practice. How, when, why?].

The phonetogram depends on measurement of the intensity of sound in dB(A) at 30 cm from the microphone of tones over the whole individual range of frequency sung as soft or loud as possible. The recording of other parameters such as degree of hoarseness, type of vocal attack, and breathing technique might be desirable for a complete description of individual voice characteristics. However, the phonetogram in combination with measurement of maximum phonation time and mean fundamental speaking frequency yields an objective and quantitative record of the fundamental parameters of an abnormal voice. The phonetogram is thus a prerequisite for phoniatric scientific studies, for medicolegal work and for a decision about fitness for work in certain professions. A phonetogram is recommended before and after microlaryngoscopic phonosurgery for benign lesions of the vocal cords, as it is of considerable documentary importance if the expected improvement of voice is not achieved. Furthermore, the phonetogram is valuable both to the physician and the patient to illustrate the individual abnormal characteristics.