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Perceptual-acoustic relationships in spasmodic dysphonia
P Zwirner1, T Murry, G E Woodson
1Voice Research Laboratory, VA Medical Center, San Diego.
Summary
Botulinum toxin injections improved adductor spasmodic dysphonia (SD). Patients experienced reduced voice severity and strain, with increased breathiness, one week post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Adductor spasmodic dysphonia (SD) is a voice disorder characterized by strained, effortful speech.
- Botulinum toxin injections are a common treatment for SD, but perceptual outcomes require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the perceptual voice changes in patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia (SD) after Botulinum toxin treatment.
- To correlate perceptual findings with acoustic parameters.
Main Methods:
- 19 patients with adductor SD underwent unilateral Botulinum toxin treatment.
- Experienced listeners rated sustained phonation samples pre- and post-treatment using a 7-point scale for severity, strain, and breathiness.
Main Results:
- Voice samples were perceived as less severe and less strain-strangled one week after Botulinum toxin treatment.
- A trend towards increased breathiness was observed post-treatment.
- Perceptual improvements correlated with acoustic parameter changes.
Conclusions:
- Botulinum toxin treatment leads to significant perceptual voice improvements in adductor SD patients within one week.
- Perceptual and acoustic measures provide complementary insights into treatment efficacy.