Voice and Swallowing Disorders Center

We specialize in the evaluation and management of voice, swallowing, and airway disorders.  These include services for patients with professional voice demands, voice misuse and abuse, recurrent laryngitis, spasmodic dysphonia, vocal cord paralysis, the aging voice, cancer of the larynx, benign vocal cord lesions, and neurological speech and swallowing difficulties related to conditions such as Parkinson's disease.

The voice and swallowing team is led by Linnea Peterson, M.D., a board-certified otolaryngologist with fellowship training in laryngology and voice disorders. All new patients are evaluated by Dr. Peterson and a speech pathologist who has specialized training in voice and swallowing disorders. Additional specialist services or diagnostic testing are arranged as needed after initial evaluation.

Appointments & Referrals

We see patients at our First Hill location. To make an appointment call 206-215-1770. Our fax is 206-215-1771.

Preparing for your appointment

Your initial visit will include a detailed history taking and review of any previous testing. The physician will perform an examination of your head and neck, followed by one or more diagnostic procedures to evaluate your throat, depending on your presenting signs and symptoms. Please bring any outside records including radiographic studies (CT, MBS, etc.) related to your condition. The actual films, or films on CD, need to be obtained and brought in for review. Also, please bring a complete medication list or the medications themselves.

Specialized Treatment

Our team will evaluate and provide diagnoses and treatment for a wide range of voice, swallowing and airway disorders including:

  • Vocal cord paralysis (unilateral or bilateral)
  • Movement disorders including spasmodic dysphonia
  • Vocal cord lesions
  • Laryngeal or tracheal stenosis
  • Laryngeal fractures or trauma
  • Zenker's diverticulum
  • Cricopharyngeal disorder
  • Vocal cord dysfunction
  • GERD

Procedures Performed

  • Videostroboscopy
  • Voice analysis
  • Laryngeal function studies
  • Phonosurgery
  • Laryngeal EMG
  • Botox injection
  • Modified barium swallow study
  • Voice therapy
  • Swallowing therapy
  • FEES
  • Injection laryngoplasty