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Acceptability and intelligibility of tracheoesophageal speech
Archives of Otolaryngology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|April 1, 1985
Summary
Tracheoesophageal (TE) speakers using a new low-pressure voice prosthesis and breathing valve demonstrated high speech acceptability and intelligibility. This study assessed listener perceptions of TE speech quality with this advanced voice restoration device.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Otolaryngology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The Blom-Singer voice prosthesis (1979) was modified for lower airway resistance.
- Tracheoesophageal (TE) voice prostheses and breathing valves aid alaryngeal speech.
- Limited data exists on the acceptability and intelligibility of TE speakers using modern devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the acceptability and intelligibility of tracheoesophageal speech.
- To assess listener perceptions of TE speakers using a prototype low-pressure prosthesis and tracheoesophageal breathing valve.
Main Methods:
- Forty-six naive listeners participated in the study.
- Listeners rated the acceptability of 15 TE speakers on an equal-appearing interval scale.
- Intelligibility was assessed using randomized 50-item word lists.
Main Results:
- TE speakers demonstrated a high level of speech acceptability.
- High intelligibility scores were recorded for both male and female TE speakers.
- The combination of the low-pressure prosthesis and breathing valve yielded positive listener perceptions.
Conclusions:
- The modified voice prosthesis and breathing valve support effective alaryngeal communication.
- TE speakers using this system achieve high speech acceptability and intelligibility.
- Further research can explore long-term outcomes and patient-reported satisfaction.