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Published on: December 1, 2023
Voice rest after vocal fold surgery: current practice and evidence.
A C Coombs1, A J Carswell, P A Tierney
1Department of Otolaryngology, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, UK. coombs.alice@googlemail.com
Post-vocal fold surgery, voice rest recommendations lack consistency in type and duration. This variability highlights the need for evidence-based guidelines to standardize patient care and improve outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Speech and Language Therapy
Background:
- Voice rest is a common recommendation after vocal fold surgery.
- Current practice lacks a standardized protocol and robust evidence base.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and establish common practices regarding voice rest following vocal fold surgery.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed to members of the ENT UK Expert Panel.
- The survey was conducted between October and November 2011.
Main Results:
- A high percentage of respondents agreed on the definition of 'complete voice rest'.
- Significant variability was observed in the definition of 'relative voice rest' and the recommended duration of voice rest.
- No dominant type of voice rest was routinely recommended for specific pathologies, except for malignant lesions.
- Less experienced surgeons tended to recommend shorter voice rest periods.
Conclusions:
- There is a notable lack of consistency in the type and duration of voice rest advice given to patients.
- This inconsistency may stem from the absence of strong evidence to guide clinical practice.
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