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Patient Characteristics Associated With Treatment Decisions in Bilateral Vocal Fold Atrophy
Pinhong Wu1, Haeun Jung1, Juyun Hwang1
1Renassiance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA.
The Laryngoscope
|August 4, 2026
Summary
Patient characteristics influence treatment choices for vocal fold atrophy. Higher voice handicap and professional voice use favor therapy, while dysphagia suggests observation. Prior interventions and comorbidities are linked to surgical decisions.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Speech and Hearing Sciences
Background:
- Bilateral vocal fold atrophy (BVFA) is increasingly prevalent due to population aging.
- BVFA can significantly impair voice quality and impact patients' quality of life.
- Existing research on dysphonia treatment decisions often focuses on specific diagnoses or objective test results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore intake-level patient characteristics associated with treatment selection in BVFA.
- To identify factors influencing decisions between observation, voice therapy, and procedural intervention for BVFA.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with BVFA via videostroboscopy (2015-2024).
- Univariable logistic regression analysis to identify patient characteristics linked to treatment choices.
- Inclusion of 248 patients with BVFA.
Main Results:
- Higher Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10) scores and professional voice use were associated with selecting voice therapy over observation.
- Dysphagia was negatively associated with pursuing voice therapy.
- Prior intubation, prior voice therapy, laryngeal trauma, cardiac disease, and current alcohol use were associated with surgical intervention.
Conclusions:
- Patient characteristics significantly influence treatment decisions for BVFA.
- Findings provide a foundation for shared decision-making between patients and clinicians regarding BVFA management.
- Further research can refine understanding of these associations.
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