Pediatric voice analysis: comparison of 2 computerized analysis systems

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Otolaryngology
• Acoustic Voice Analysis
• Speech Science

Background:

• Objective voice measurements are crucial for diagnosing pediatric voice disorders.
• Comparing different acoustic analysis systems is essential for consistent clinical application.
• Existing pediatric voice databases lack comprehensive comparisons between widely used systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare normative pediatric acoustic voice variables between the Multi-Dimensional Voice Program (MDVP) and the Voice Evaluation Suite (VES).
• To establish a comprehensive pediatric voice database using the VES system for fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, and noise-to-harmonic ratio.
• To identify the comparability of key acoustic parameters between two leading voice analysis platforms.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 335 children aged 4-18 with normal voices.
• Objective voice data were collected using both the MDVP and VES computerized voice analysis systems.
• Key acoustic variables measured included fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, and noise-to-harmonic ratio.

Main Results:

• Mean fundamental frequency measurements showed no statistically significant difference between MDVP and VES (P=0.23).
• Statistically significant differences were observed for jitter percentage (P<0.001), shimmer percentage (P<0.001), and noise-to-harmonic ratio (P<0.002) between the two systems.
• Pediatric fundamental frequency values aligned with previous normative data.

Conclusions:

• Fundamental frequency measurements in children are comparable between MDVP and VES.
• Jitter, shimmer, and noise-to-harmonic ratio values are not interchangeable between MDVP and VES.
• It is crucial to report the specific voice analysis system used when presenting voice measurement outcomes in research and clinical practice.