Comparison of speech parameters and olfaction using different tracheotomy speaking valves

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology
• Otolaryngology
• Biomedical engineering

Background:

• Tracheotomy is a medical procedure requiring respiratory support.
• Speaking valves are essential for voice restoration in tracheotomized patients.
• Comparing different speaking valve devices is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a controlled clinical comparison of three speaking valves: Passy-Muir, Shiley, and Ball.
• To evaluate subjective and objective parameters of speech and olfaction.
• To assess the impact of speaking valves on patient quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Ten patients dependent on tracheotomy were tested with each speaking valve.
• Olfaction assessed using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT).
• Acoustic and perceptual speech analyses included phonation time, S:Z ratio, fundamental frequency, vocal intensity, perturbation, naturalness, and turbulence.

Main Results:

• The Ball speaking valve demonstrated statistically significant improvements in olfaction and speech naturalness.
• Speech parameters like maximum phonation, S:Z ratio, jitter, noise, and turbulence were generally better with the Ball valve.
• No significant differences were observed in oxygen saturation levels among the tested valves.

Conclusions:

• The Ball speaking valve offers significant advantages over the Passy-Muir and Shiley valves.
• Improvements in olfaction and speech naturalness are key benefits of the Ball valve.
• This study provides valuable data for clinicians selecting speaking valves for tracheotomized patients.