Evaluation of an eclectic voice therapy program and vocal function exercise (VFE) in hyperfunctional voice disorders:...

Area of Science:

• Speech and Hearing Sciences
• Otolaryngology
• Voice Science

Background:

• Hyperfunctional voice disorder (HVD) presents a significant challenge in voice rehabilitation.
• Existing therapies vary, necessitating evaluation of structured, eclectic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of the Comprehensive Voice Habilitation Program (CVHP), an eclectic approach, for individuals with HVD.
• To compare CVHP outcomes against a standard voice therapy (VFE) using a multidimensional protocol.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 60 participants with HVD.
• Participants were assigned to either the CVHP group or the VFE group for six weeks of therapy.
• Outcomes were measured pre- and post-therapy using videostroboscopy, acoustic analysis, perceptual ratings (GRBAS), and self-assessment tools (V-DOP, VFI-T).

Main Results:

• The CVHP group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in vocal fold closure, reduced ventricular hyperadduction, and enhanced acoustic measures (CPPv).
• Significant reductions in perceptual voice ratings (grade, asthenia, strain) and self-reported physical discomfort (VFI-T) were observed in the CVHP group.
• The eclectic CVHP approach yielded more positive outcomes compared to VFE post-therapy.

Conclusions:

• The Comprehensive Voice Habilitation Program (CVHP) offers a structured and sequential method for treating hyperfunctional voice disorders.
• CVHP demonstrates effectiveness in achieving positive treatment outcomes for HVD patients.
• This study supports the use of eclectic voice therapy programs like CVHP in clinical practice.