Research summary
The larynx and upper airway are critical to our ability to breathe, communicate and swallow. But while these may sound like uncomplicated processes, a variety of disorders can make them difficult for some people. Dr. Nicole Yee-Key Li-Jessen, Canada Research Chair in Personalized Medicine of Upper Airway Health and Diseases, is developing digital technologies to support upper airway health care.
She and her research team are improving a computational model to better predict patient data in a voice clinic and integrating computer simulation and machine learning techniques to reduce the cost of engineering regenerative biomaterials. They are also developing a rapid, low-cost, portable platform to diagnose laryngopharyngeal reflux. In addition, they are improving wearable sensors that monitor upper airway health. Overall, their research will contribute to more personalized and sustainable health care for patients with laryngeal and upper airway disorders.