RESUMO
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Reinke's edema has shown different voice qualities and different mucosal waves according to the degree of swelling in the vocal folds. The subjects were classified into three types : waterish, mixed, and gelatinous type according to the consistency of fluid in the Reinke's space. We compared voice parameters of different types of Reinke's edema. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All of the subjects were classified according to the laryngoscopic findings and operation findings. History for duration of disease, smoking histories, and the severity of laryngopharyngeal reflux were evaluated. Stroboscopy and videokymography were used for the assessment of mucosal waves. Voice parameters were obtained and compared from all subjects to assess acoustic and aerodynamic factors. RESULTS: Vocal fold vibrations of waterish type was more active than the gelatinous type or mixed type in the stroboscopic findings and videokymography. The fundamental frequency of gelatinous type was significantly lower compared to other types: however, subglottic pressure was significantly higher compared to other types. CONCLUSIONS: Reinke's edema was classified according to the gelatinous type, mixed type and waterish type according to the consistency of fluid in the vocal folds. There were typically acoustic and stroboscopic findings in each type.