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Objective voice analysis in dysphonic patients: new data including nonlinear measurements
Ping Yu1, Renaud Garrel, Richard Nicollas
1Laboratoire d'Audio-Phonologie Expérimentale et Clinique, UPRES-EA 2668, Université de la Méditerranée, Fédération ORL CHU Timone, Marseille, France.
Summary
Objective voice analysis using acoustic and aerodynamic parameters accurately classifies dysphonia. A combination of seven parameters in women and six in men achieved 81-84% classification accuracy, comparable to expert listener judgments.
Area of Science:
- Speech and Hearing Sciences
- Biomedical Engineering
- Acoustics
Background:
- Voice disorders affect millions globally, necessitating reliable diagnostic tools.
- Current voice evaluation often relies on subjective perceptual analysis.
- Objective acoustic and aerodynamic measures offer potential for more consistent voice assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare objective voice analysis with perceptual voice assessment.
- To identify key objective parameters for classifying dysphonia severity.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a multiparametric protocol for voice analysis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 449 voice samples (391 pathological, 58 normal).
- Objective measures included fundamental frequency (Fo), jitter, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), Lyapunov coefficient (Lya), oral airflow (OAF), estimated subglottic pressure (ESGP), maximum phonatory time (MPT), and vocal range.
- Perceptual analysis by a jury using the GRBAS scale (G component) on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).
Main Results:
- A nonlinear combination of 7 parameters (women) and 6 parameters (men) achieved 81% (women) and 84% (men) classification accuracy, matching jury assessments.
- Prospective validation confirmed 80.5% correct classification using the same objective measurements.
- The Lyapunov coefficient (Lya) was identified as a significant parameter.
Conclusions:
- Objective voice analysis provides a reliable method for dysphonia classification.
- Multiparametric protocols integrating acoustic and aerodynamic measures can effectively mimic expert perceptual judgments.
- Objective measures, particularly Lya, show promise for routine clinical voice assessment.
