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Published on: February 21, 2011
Voice therapy used to test a basic protocol for multidimensional assessment of dysphonia
M J Rodríguez-Parra1, J A Adrián, J C Casado
1Department of Personality, Psychological Evaluation and Treatment, University of Granada, Granada, Spain. mjrodri@ugr.es
A multidimensional voice protocol effectively diagnosed dysphonia by analyzing vocal function indicators. These indicators, including maximum phonation time and jitter, showed improvement after voice therapy and were maintained post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Speech and Hearing Sciences
- Otolaryngology
- Voice Disorders Research
Background:
- Dysphonia diagnosis requires a comprehensive approach.
- Existing methods may not capture all essential vocal function data.
- A standardized protocol can improve diagnostic accuracy and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a multidimensional voice protocol for dysphonia diagnosis.
- To identify key indicators for assessing vocal function and treatment response.
- To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of voice therapy.
Main Methods:
- A multiparametric assessment (Multidimensional "Teatinos" Protocol) was used.
- Evaluated videolaryngostroboscopy, perceptual, acoustic, spectrographic, aerodynamic, and subjective measures.
- Compared 21 dysphonic patients with 21 controls, followed by a 3-month voice therapy intervention.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in vocal function indicators were found between groups.
- Key indicators sensitive to voice therapy included MPT, MET, MPTS, jitter, WB, SELF, HYGIENE, ANX, and perceptual/laryngoscopic/spectrographic findings.
- Therapeutic effects persisted or improved 4 months post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- The Multidimensional "Teatinos" Protocol effectively differentiates dysphonic patients from controls.
- Multidimensional voice evaluation is a valuable tool for diagnosing dysphonia.
- The protocol aids in assessing treatment efficacy and prognosis in clinical settings.
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