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[Objective evaluation of dysphonia. Possibilities and limitations]
V Di Nicola1, M L Fiorella, P Luperto
1Dipartimento di Oftalmologia ed Otorinolaringoiatria, Clinica Otorinolaringoiatrica II, Università di Bari.
Objective voice analysis using the Yumoto H/N ratio provides a reliable and sensitive method for evaluating dysphonia. This quantitative approach offers clear discrimination between normal and pathological voices, aiding in diagnosis and treatment assessment.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Acoustic analysis
- Speech pathology
Context:
- Current clinical evaluation of dysphonia relies on subjective criteria, lacking objectivity.
- There is a need for quantitative, objective methods to assess voice disorders.
- Objective evaluation aids in understanding dysphonia onset and treatment effects.
Purpose:
- To determine the reliability, possibilities, and limitations of an objective, parametric procedure for voice evaluation.
- To assess the Yumoto H/N ratio for differentiating normal and pathological voices.
- To establish an objective method for dysphonia assessment.
Summary:
- A study involving 208 subjects (148 with dysphonia, 60 normal) utilized computerized digital sonography and algorithms to measure the Yumoto H/N ratio.
- The Yumoto H/N ratio demonstrated high sensitivity and objectivity in distinguishing between normal and dysphonia groups.
- Average H/N ratios were significantly different (1.697 dB for dysphonia vs. 11.169 dB for normal, p < 0.001), with no overlapping data.
Impact:
- The Yumoto H/N ratio offers a simple, sensitive, and objective method for dysphonia evaluation.
- Results suggest potential for developing objective instrumental voice measurement protocols, including forensic applications.
- Standardization of sampling and analysis methods is crucial for data validity and protocol development.
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