Efeitos de um programa de fonoterapia da voz em grupo de pacientes com disfonia: estudo piloto / Effects of a voice therapy program in a group of patients with dysphonia: a pilot study

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar os efeitos de um programa de fonoterapia da voz em grupo de pacientes com disfonia, por meio de avaliações perceptivo-auditiva e autopercepção vocal. Métodos Estudo-piloto de ensaio clínico não controlado, com amostra de conveniência. O estudo contou com 22 participantes com diagnóstico otorrinolaringológico de disfonia. Dentre eles, 15 mulheres e sete homens, com média de idade de 59,4 ± 12,53. Foram realizadas dez sessões de terapia fonoaudiológica em grupos de cinco a seis pessoas, com abordagens diretas e indiretas, baseadas no Programa Integral de Reabilitação Vocal (PIRV). Os participantes foram avaliados individualmente, antes e após a realização do programa terapêutico. A avaliação incluiu análise de autopercepção com a Escala de Sintomas Vocais (ESV) e perceptivo-auditiva da qualidade vocal com a escala Grade, Roughness, Breathness, Asteny, Strain, (GRBAS), realizadas por fonoaudiólogos especialistas em voz. Resultados Após o programa terapêutico, observou-se diferença significativa na pontuação de grau geral de alteração da ESV (p=0,002) e também nas subescalas Limitação (p=0,002) e Emocional (p=0,006), indicando autopercepção de redução dos sintomas vocais após intervenção. No entanto, destaca-se que não foram encontrados resultados significativos na comparação pré e pós-tratamento com relação à qualidade vocal. Conclusão O programa de fonoterapia da voz teve efeitos estatisticamente significativos em relação aos sintomas vocais autorrelatados, sinalizando um caminho promissor de abordagem eclética para a terapia vocal em grupo.

ABSTRACT Purpose To identify the effects of a phonotherapy program in a group of patients with dysphonia through auditory-perceptual and vocal self-perception assessments. Methods Pilot study: an uncontrolled clinical trial with a convenience sample. Twenty-two patients with an otorhinolaryngological diagnosis of dysphonia participated in the study, including 15 women and 7 men, with a mean age of 59.4 ± 12.53, who underwent 10 speech therapy sessions in groups of 5 to 6 people, with direct and indirect therapy based on the Comprehensive Vocal Rehabilitation Program (CVRP). Patients were individually assessed before and after the therapeutic program, the assessment included auditory-perceptual analysis with the Vocal Symptoms Scale (VSS) and auditory-perceptual analysis of voice quality GRBAS, performed by speech-language pathologists specializing in voice. Results After the therapeutic program, there was a significant difference in the score for the general degree of change in the VSS (p=0.002), and also in the limitation (p=0.002) and emotional (p=0.006) subscales, indicating selfperceived reduction in vocal symptoms after intervention. However, no significant results were found in the pre- and posttreatment comparison regarding vocal quality. Conclusion The study demonstrated that the voice therapy program had statistically significant effects in relation to self-reported vocal symptoms, thus signaling a promising path for an eclectic approach to group vocal therapy.

Comparison of therapeutic effects of steroid injection by benign vocal fold lesion type.

BACKGROUND: Benign vocal fold lesions (BVFLs) can cause voice changes, including reduced loudness and pitch range. In recent times, with progression in endoscopic technology, office-based vocal fold steroid injection (VFSI) has been used as an alternative therapy for BVFLs. AIMS/OBJECTIVES: In this study, we analyzed the efficacy and safety of VFSI to investigate the mechanism underlying its therapeutic effects and determine the conditions in which VFSI will be most effective. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, we included 40 condition-matched patients (8 patients per lesion) with chorditis, vocal nodules, vocal polyps, Reinke's edema (RE), or vocal scars who received similar regimens of steroid injection using a commercial preparation of triamcinolone acetonide. Their phonological outcomes were evaluated 2 or 3 months after the injection. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in Voice Handicap Index scores, results of laboratory voice evaluation, and voice quality measured using the Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain scale in all participants. In subgroup analysis, VFSI was highly effective against chorditis and vocal nodules, but less effective against RE and vocal scars. CONCLUSIONS: Single-dose VFSI is valuable as an alternative to voice rehabilitation and laryngo-microsurgery, but higher concentrations or repeated injections are required for intractable lesions.

Post-extubation dysphagia and dysphonia amongst adults with COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland: A prospective multi-site observational cohort study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to (i) investigate post-extubation dysphagia and dysphonia amongst adults intubated with SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) and referred to speech and language therapy (SLT) in acute hospitals across the Republic of Ireland (ROI) between March and June 2020; (ii) identify variables predictive of post-extubation oral intake status and dysphonia and (iii) establish SLT rehabilitation needs and services provided to this cohort. DESIGN: A multi-site prospective observational cohort study. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred adults with confirmed COVID-19 who were intubated across eleven acute hospital sites in ROI and who were referred to SLT services between March and June 2020 inclusive. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Oral intake status, level of diet modification and perceptual voice quality. RESULTS: Based on initial SLT assessment, 90% required altered oral intake and 59% required tube feeding with 36% not allowed oral intake. Age (OR 1.064; 95% CI 1.018-1.112), proning (OR 3.671; 95% CI 1.128-11.943) and pre-existing respiratory disease (OR 5.863; 95% CI 1.521-11.599) were predictors of oral intake status post-extubation. Two-thirds (66%) presented with dysphonia post-extubation. Intubation injury (OR 10.471; 95% CI 1.060-103.466) and pre-existing respiratory disease (OR 24.196; 95% CI 1.609-363.78) were predictors of post-extubation voice quality. Thirty-seven per cent required dysphagia intervention post-extubation, whereas 20% needed intervention for voice. Dysphagia and dysphonia persisted in 27% and 37% cases, respectively, at hospital discharge. DISCUSSION: Post-extubation dysphagia and dysphonia were prevalent amongst adults with COVID-19 across the ROI. Predictors included iatrogenic factors and underlying respiratory disease. Prompt evaluation and intervention is needed to minimise complications and inform rehabilitation planning.

Orientaciones filosóficas en la intervención fonoaudiológica de voz. El desafío actual de dar el alta / Philosophical orientations in voice therapy. The current challenge of discharge

El presente artículo corresponde a una reflexión sobre las orientaciones filosóficas en la terapia vocal actual. Cuando existe alguna alteración o trastorno vocal, se habla comunmente de un desequilibrio entre los subsistemas involucrados en el proceso fonatorio, es decir, fuelle (sistema respiratorio), fuente (pliegues vocales) y filtro (tracto vocal). Si no hay un correcto balance, entonces el sistema no tiene un correcto funcionamiento y pueden aparecer síntomas como ronquera, sensación de cuerpo extraño, prurito, fatiga vocal o bien disfonía o incluso afonía. Como con-secuencia de estas dificultades, se generan compensaciones que durante el proceso de la intervención fonoaudiológica el profesional debe volver a "equilibrar". Para lograr este objetivo, se desarrollan y analizan las diversas herramientas que entregan las filosofías de pensamiento a lo largo de la historia de la rehabilitación vocal, don-de se encuentran la orientación higiénica, psicológica, sintomatológica, fisiológica y ecléctica. En este mismo sentido, el profesional debe buscar lo que percibe como más idóneo para cada paciente o grupo a intervenir, centrado en mejorar la calidad vocal y las necesidades actuales de estos, basándose en el contexto mundial actual, con el objetivo de lograr un buen proceso de entrenamiento o rehabilitación y final-mente lograr el alta.

The present article corresponds to a reflection about the philosophical orientations in the current vocal therapy. When there are some vocal alterations or disorders, we usually talk about an imbalance between the sub-sysmtems involved in the fonatory process, which are bellows (respiratory system), source (vocal folds) and filter (vocal tract). When there is not a correct balance, the system does not work properly and as a consequence, it is possible to experiment symptoms such as hoarseness, foreign body sensation, pruritus, vocal fatigue, dysphonia or even aphonia. As a result of these difficulties, it is possible to generate compensations through the intervention of speech therapy. By virtue of this therapy the professional must 'balance'. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to develop and analyze the different tools that philoso-phical studies offer through the history of vocal rehabilitation. Some of these tools are hygienic orientation, psychological, symptomatological, physiological and eclec-tic. Thinking on that, the professional must search what it is most suitable for every patient or group of people that he/she will be working with. This must be focus on improving vocal quality and the actual necessities of the patient, based on the current global context. The final purpose of the professional is to achieve a good and healthy process of training and/or rehabilitation to accomplish medical discharge.

Objetivos de intervención en voz: Una propuesta para su análisis y redacción / Voice therapy goals: a proposal for analysis and writing

Este artículo de reflexión aborda aspectos que dan cuenta de la complejidad en el planteamiento de objetivos en torno a los marcos de abordaje vocal contemporáneos. Se plantea la complejidad de la selección y redacción de objetivos para la interven-ción en voz holística y ecléctica, y desde ella, la necesidad de incorporar el modelo CIF y las recomendaciones de la ASHA para el desarrollo de objetivos centrados en la persona, tanto a corto como a largo plazo. Se propone la utilización del método de análisis SMART y su aplicación específica para objetivos de intervención de la voz. Además, se abordan los aspectos formales que se deben considerar para una redacción precisa. Finalmente, se ejemplifica la propuesta mediante un caso clínico. Esta propuesta pretende ser de utilidad para fines terapéuticos y/o para el ámbito académico, tanto en la discusión de la formulación y diseño de planes terapéuticos como en el pensamiento reflexivo asociado al abordaje vocal.

This reflective article addresses aspects that deal with the complexity of objective setting in contemporary vocal approach frameworks. It addresses the complexity in selecting and writing objectives for holistic and eclectic voice therapy and the need to incorporate the ICF model and ASHA recommendations for the development of person-centered goals in both the short and long term. The use of the SMART analysis method is proposed and its specific application for voice therapy goal. Also, the formal aspects to be considered for precise wording are addressed. Finally, the proposal is exemplified through a clinical case. This proposal is intended to be useful for therapeutic and/or academic purposes, both in discussing the formula-tion and design of therapeutic plans and the reflective thinking associated with the vocal approach.

Posture and dysphonia associations in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy: stabilometric analysis.

The aim of this study is the analysis of postural changes of patients affected by vocal disorders post-thyroidectomy, in the absence of post-operative organ damage, through a stabilometry analysis, evaluating the effectiveness of a speech-language intensive treatment in phoniatric and postural quality recovery. 260 patients with vocal dysfunction after surgery without iatrogenic damage were enrolled. 130 patients were subject to post-surgical logopedic rehabilitative training (Group A); other 130 patients were not subject to any post-surgical treatment (Group B). For all patients, vocal and stabilometric parameters were evaluated before and after 2 days and 1 month from surgery. Vocal parameters evaluated were Voice Handicap Index-10, Maximum Phonation Time and objective evaluation of voice with Multidimensional Voice Program (MDVP). Stabilometric parameters evaluated were Sway area (mm2) and Sway velocity (mm/s) in firm surface and foam pad with eyes opened and closed. Regarding the stabilometric parameters, Group A obtained a statistically significant recovery of the correct posture statistically significant compared to Group B, after a month of speech therapy. Vocal parameters (VHI, MPT, MDVP) were statistically different between the two groups (p < 0.05), with a better improvement in Group A. Thanks to our study, we have shown that a logopedic rehabilitation therapy in patients with dysfunctional post-thyroidectomy dysphonia improves both the vocal and postural outcomes.

The effectiveness of voice therapy on voice-related handicap: A network meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Treatment approaches for voice therapy are diverse, yet their differential effects are not well understood. Evaluations of treatment effects across approaches are important for clinical guidance and evidence-based practice. OBJECTIVE OF REVIEW: To quantify the evidence of treatment effectiveness on the outcome measure Voice Handicap Index with the 30-items (VHI-30) from existing randomised controlled/clinical trials (RCT) of voice therapy using the statistical approach of a network meta-analysis (NMA) with a random effects model. TYPE OF REVIEW: Meta-analysis. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched in MEDLINE (PubMed, 1950 to 2019), Embase (1974 to 2019) and Science Citation Index (1994 to 2019) using five key terms. The inclusion criteria were reports of randomised controlled/clinical trials (RCTs) published in English or German which evaluated the effectiveness of a specific voice therapy treatment using VHI-30 as an outcome measure in adult participants with non-organic or organic voice disorders. Studies were excluded if participants had been diagnosed with neurological motor speech disorders or who were vocally healthy. Furthermore, no medical, pharmacological or instrumental (eg voice amplification) treatments were considered. EVALUATION METHOD: The primary outcome variable was VHI-30 with a score from 0 to 120. The pre-post treatment change in VHI-30 scores was an average score of 13 points related to various VHI-30 test-retest results. RESULTS: We retrieved 464 publications (ie with duplicates) and included 13 RCTs, which evaluated nine interventions, in the final analysis. The most effective intervention with a significant and clinically relevant effect was Stretch-and-Flow Phonation (SFP) (mean pre-post difference -28.37, 95% confidence interval [CI], -43.05 to-13.68). Resonant Voice (RV), the Comprehensive Voice Rehabilitation Program (CVRP) and Vocal Function Exercises (VFE) also demonstrated significant improvements. CONCLUSIONS: Of the nine voice interventions identified with the present NMA, SFP, RVT, CVRP, and VFE effectively improved VHI-30 scores from pre- to post-treatment. SFP proved to be the most significant and clinically relevant treatment. Further contributions of high-quality intervention studies are needed to support evidence-based practice in vocology.

Voice therapy associated with a decrease in the reflux symptoms index in patients with voice complaints.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: Patients with muscle tension dysphonia often demonstrate an elevation in Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and 10-item Voice Handicap Index (VHI-10) scores, and may be erroneously diagnosed with laryngopharyngeal reflux disease. In this study we assessed the effects of voice therapy on RSI and VHI-10 scores in patients with voice complaints not responsive to antireflux medications. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. METHODS: A study of patients was conducted at a single tertiary-care center over 1 year (January 2012-January 2013). Patients were included if they had dysphonia not responsive to proton pump inhibition, did not have neurologic or neoplastic disease, and participated in at least three voice-therapy sessions in the absence of antireflux therapy. Primary analysis assessed change in RSI scores between the initial and follow-up visits with a laryngologist. RESULTS: A total of 18 patients were included (mean age = 49.9 ± 14.5 years, 89% female, 83% with a primary complaint of dysphonia). From initial to follow-up visit, the median RSI score (18.5 [interquartile range {IQR}, 9.5-22.8] vs. 10.5 [IQR, 4.5-14]; P = .02) and median VHI-10 score (25.5 [IQR, 11.3-30.0] vs. 13.5 [IQR, 9.5-20.8]; P = .03) significantly decreased. A significant inverse correlation was found between the number of voice therapy sessions/month and change in RSI score (r = -0.4; P = .05). CONCLUSIONS: In this study of patients with muscle tension dysphonia or vocal hyperfunction not responsive to antireflux therapy, RSI and VHI-10 scores improved following voice therapy. Results suggest that self-reported symptoms typically attributed to laryngopharyngeal reflux disease may actually be secondary to inefficient voice use patterns or anxiety about dysphonia that are responsive to voice therapy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 129:1169-1173, 2019.

Incidence of dysphagia and dysphonia after Hangman's fractures: Evidence from 93 patients.

This research aims to explore the accurate incidence, severity and outcomes of dysphagia and dysphonia after Hangman fractures.A total of 93 patients were included in this study and clinical data were reviewed. The Bazaz grading system (0-None; 1-Mild; 2-Moderate; 3-Severe) was used for dysphagia evaluation and the Voice Handicap Index-10 used to evaluate dysphonia. In all of the patients, evaluation of dysphagia and dysphonia was performed preoperatively and at 1 week, 1 month, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. SPSS 22.0 software (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL) was used for all statistical analyses.Posttraumatic immediate dysphagia was found in 8 patients and posttraumatic immediate dysphonia was observed in 3 patients. The incidence of dysphagia was 22.6% at the 1st week, 16.1% at the 1st month, and 9.7% at the 3rd month of follow-up. The incidence of dysphonia was 24.5% at the 1st week, 11.3% at the 1st month, and 3.8% at the 3rd month of follow-up.Posttraumatic immediate dysphagia and dysphonia occurred and the anterior surgical approach was associated with a higher incidence of dysphagia compared to posterior surgery and nonoperative patients. Most dysphagia and dysphonia were mild and gradually decreased during the subsequent 3 months after surgery. Future prospective, randomized studies with larger sample sizes are required to validate these data.

Comportamento vocal e condições de trabalho de professores após fonoterapia para tratamento de disfonia comportamental / Vocal behavior and working conditions of teachers after speech therapy for treatment of behavioral dysphonia

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar as mudanças de hábitos vocais e na percepção do ambiente de trabalho dos professores com disfonia comportamental, após participação no Programa Integral de Reabilitação Vocal. Métodos Estudo transversal realizado com prontuários de professores municipais (etapa 1) e com aplicação de questionário após alta fonoaudiológica (etapa 2). Os 25 professores participantes realizaram fonoterapia para disfonia comportamental e responderam ao questionário, no período mínimo de seis meses após alta fonoaudiológica. A coleta de dados foi feita por meio da análise retrospectiva dos prontuários dos pacientes e por envio de questionário via internet. Foi realizada análise descritiva e os testes McNemar, Wilcoxon e teste t, considerando nível de significância de 5%. Resultados Comparando o momento pré e pós-fonoterapia, verificou-se que os professores perceberam piora na ventilação, temperatura e ruído originado dentro da escola, redução no relato de ruído originado na sala de aula e fora da escola, além de terem intensificado a utilização do microfone. Houve aumento da prática de aquecimento e desaquecimento vocal no momento após a fonoterapia. Não houve significância estatística entre os grupos nos parâmetros do protocolo Perfil de Participação e Atividades Vocais. Conclusão Ocorreram mudanças no comportamento vocal e na percepção do ambiente de trabalho, após a reabilitação fonoaudiológica. O relato de realização do aquecimento e desaquecimento da voz, após fonoterapia, aumentou, indicando que os professores mostraram-se mais conscientes sobre os benefícios dos exercícios vocais. O uso do microfone foi mais frequente, porém, a quantidade de água ingerida durante o dia foi aquém do esperado.

ABSTRACT Purpose Check the vocal habits and changes in the working environment of teachers with functional dysphonia before and after participation in the Comprehensive Vocal Rehabilitation Program. Methods Cross-sectional study using medical records of municipal teachers (step 1), and questionnaires after speech therapy (step 2). The 25 participants underwent speech therapy for functional dysphonia and answered the questionnaire over a period of at least six months after concluding the treatment. Data were collected through the retrospective analyses of the patients medical records, and by questionnaire via the internet. We performed a descriptive analysis and McNemar, Wilcoxon and Test-t tests considering a significance level of 5%. Results When comparing the time before and after the speech therapy, we found that teachers noticed a worsening in ventilation, temperature and noise originated with in the school. Teachers have increased the use of the microphone. They increased the practice of vocal warm-up and cool-down after the speech therapy. There was no statistical significance between the groups in the parameters of the Protocol of the Profile of Participation and activities. Conclusion The vocal behavior and the work environment changed after the intervention. The use of vocal warm-up and cool-down after speech therapy increased, indicating that teachers are more aware about the benefits of vocal exercises. The use of the microphone has increased, but the amount of water consumed during the day is lower than expected.

Efeito do programa integral de reabilitação vocal em professoras com disfonia comportamental / Effect of the comprehensive voice rehabilitation program in teachers with behavioral dysphonia

RESUMO Objetivo analisar os efeitos do Programa Integral de Reabilitação Vocal (PIRV) e os estágios motivacionais durante a terapia de voz em professoras com disfonia comportamental. Método estudo observacional longitudinal retrospectivo com dados de prontuários de 33 professoras referente à análise perceptivo-auditiva, acústica, autopercepção vocal e Protocolo de Índice de Desvantagem Vocal (IDV-10) nas situações pré e pós-fonoterapia e estágios motivacionais de adesão ao tratamento. Resultados Na avaliação perceptivo-auditiva da voz, 64,7% das participantes melhoraram a qualidade vocal pós-fonoterapia. Quando comparados os momentos pré e pós-fonoterapia, observou-se que 82,4% das professoras melhoraram a voz segundo a autopercepção. O IDV-10 não mostrou diferença entre os momentos pré e pós-fonoterapia (p=0,879). Na análise acústica da voz, observou-se melhora da média de todos os parâmetros avaliados. Houve associação estatisticamente significante na análise entre os momentos pré e pós-fonoterapia apenas nas variáveis tempo máximo de fonação e shimmer. A maioria das professoras encontrou-se no estágio de contemplação na escala URICA-VOZ. Não houve significância estatística na análise de associação entre o IDV-10, análise perceptivo-auditiva, tempo máximo de fonação e parâmetros da análise acústica com a autopercepção vocal das professoras e com a avaliação perceptivo-auditiva da voz. Conclusão o uso do PIRV para tratamento de disfonias comportamentais promoveu resultados positivos quando comparada a avaliação vocal antes e após tratamento. Quanto à motivação, as professoras acreditavam com firmeza na possibilidade de enfrentar o problema, mas ainda sem muito esforço para mudar essa situação.

ABSTRACT Purpose Analyze the effects of the Comprehensive Vocal Rehabilitation Program (CVRP) and the motivational stages during speech therapy in teachers with behavioral dysphonia. Methods Retrospective, longitudinal, observational study using data from the medical records of 33 teachers regarding auditory-perceptual, acoustic, self-perception analyses and the Voice Handicap Index (VHI-10) protocol in pre- and post-speech therapy situations, and motivational stages of adherence to treatment. Results Auditory-perceptual assessment of the voice showed that 64.7% of the participants improved voice quality post-speech therapy. Comparison between the pre- and post-speech therapy moments showed that 82.4% of the teachers improved their voice according to self-perception. The VHI-10 showed no statistically significant difference between the pre- and post-speech therapy moments (p=0.879). Acoustic analysis of the voice showed improvement in the means of all evaluated parameters. Statistically significant correlation was observed in the analysis between the pre- and post-speech therapy moments only for the variables maximum phonation time and shimmer. Most of the teachers were at the stage of contemplation on the URICA-VOICE scale. No statistical significance was observed in the correlation analysis between VHI-10, auditory-perceptual assessment of the voice, maximum phonation time, and parameters of acoustic analysis with vocal self-perception of teachers and with auditory-perceptual assessment of voice. Conclusion The use of CVRP for the treatment of behavioral dysphonia presented positive results in the pre- and post-speech therapy evaluation. As for motivation, the teachers strongly believed in the possibility of facing the problem, but still without much effort to change this situation.

Surface electromyographic biofeedback for behavioral dysphonia in adult people: a systematic review / Biofeedback eletromiográfico de superfície para disfonia comportamental em adultos: revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Purpose To review systematically the literature and to analyze the effectiveness of surface electromyographic biofeedback in the rehabilitation of adults with behavioral dysphonia. Research strategies Two authors performed an independent search in the following databases: Clinical Trials, Cochrane Library, Embase, LILACS, PubMed, and Web of Science. A specific search strategy was developed for each database. Selection criteria The review included studies that examined the effectiveness of surface electromyographic biofeedback compared to other direct vocal therapy intervention in adults with behavioral dysphonia. There were no restrictions in regard to language or date of publication. Data analysis Analysis of the risk of bias, heterogeneity, quantitative and qualitative data, sensitivity, subgroups, and publication bias. Results 51 studies were identified, but only two cohort studies remained as prospects for analysis. The studies showed 100% uncertain risk of selection, performance, and detection bias. There was a high degree of clinical heterogeneity. The descriptive analysis showed a reduction in muscle electrical activity and improvement in vocal self-assessment using electromyographic biofeedback; however, it was not possible to calculate the effect size of the interventions. The present study was limited by the fact that it was unable to show a consensus for the majority of data analyzed. Conclusion The available literature does not support a conclusive finding about the effectiveness of surface electromyographic biofeedback compared to other direct interventions used in the rehabilitation of adults with behavioral dysphonia. The studies analyzed vary widely in their clinical procedures and methodology, making it impossible to determine the procedure's effectiveness.

RESUMO Objetivo Revisar sistematicamente a literatura e analisar a efetividade do biofeedback eletromiográfico de superfície na reabilitação de adultos com disfonia comportamental. Estratégia de pesquisa Dois autores realizaram uma busca independente nas bases de dados: Clinical Trials , Cochrane Library, Embase, LILACS, PUBMED e Web of Science. Elaborou-se uma estratégia de busca específica para cada base. Critérios de seleção Foram incluídos estudos que analisaram a efetividade do biofeedback eletromiográfico de superfície comparado com outras intervenções de terapia vocal direta em adultos com disfonia comportamental. Não houve restrição de idioma e data de publicação. Análise de dados Análise do risco de viés, heterogeneidade, dados quantitativos e qualitativos, sensibilidade, subgrupos e viés de publicação. Resultados foram identificados 51 estudos, sendo que apenas dois estudos coorte prospectivos foram analisados. Os estudos apresentaram 100% de risco incerto de viés de seleção, performance e detecção. Houve alta heterogeneidade clínica. A análise descritiva mostrou redução da atividade elétrica muscular e melhora da autoavaliação vocal com o uso do biofeedback eletromiográfico, porém, não foi possível calcular o tamanho do efeito das intervenções. O presente estudo apresentou limitações por não conseguir apresentar um consenso para a maioria dos dados analisados. Conclusão A literatura disponível não permite gerar uma evidência conclusiva acerca da efetividade do biofeedback eletromiográfico comparado a outras intervenções diretas na reabilitação de sujeitos adultos com disfonia comportamental.

Tubo de resonancia: opción terapéutica en pacientes con sulcus vocalis / Resonance tube: therapeutic option in patients with sulcus vocalis / Tubo de resonência: opção terapêutica em pacientes com sulcus vocalis

INTRODUCCIÓN: La terapia vocal con tubos de resonancia, pertenece al grupo de ejercicios de tracto vocal semiocluido. Este método busca generar cambios de impedancia y de patrones vibratorios de los pliegues vocales a través de la modificación de la longitud, del diámetro y la profundidad de los tubos utilizados. El objetivo del trabajo es presentar los resultados obtenidos luego de diez sesiones de terapia vocal, utilizando tubos de resonancia en dos pacientes con diagnóstico de sulcus vocalis bilateral...

INTRODUCTION: Vocal therapy with resonance tubes, belongs to the Semi-Occluded Vocal Tract (SOVT) exercises. This method, seeks to generate changes in impedance and the vibratory pattern of vocal folds through the modification of the long, diameter and depth of the tube . The objective of the article is to present the results obtained after 10 sessions of vocal therapy, using resonance tubes as a therapeutic resource, in 2 patients diagnosed with bilateral sulcus vocalis...

INTRODUÇÃO: A terapia vocal com tubos de ressonância, pertence aos exercícios do Trato Vocal Semi-Ocluído (SOVT). Este método, busca gerar mudanças na impedância e no padrão vibratório das pregas vocais através da modificação do comprimento, diâmetro e profundidade do tubo. O objetivo do artigo é apresentar os resultados obtidos após 10 sessões de terapia vocal, utilizando tubos de ressonância como recurso terapêutico, em 2 pacientes diagnosticados com sulco vocal bilateral...

Rehabilitación vocal en un paciente con cáncer de laringe tratado con radioterapia / Vocal rehabilitation in a patient with laryngal cancer treated with radiotherapy / Reabilitação vocal em paciente com câncer de laringe tratado com radioterapia

INTRODUCCIÓN: La mayoría de la población con cáncer de laringe experimenta alteraciones persistentes en la voz por causa de los efectos fisiopatológicos de la radioterapia, provocando un gran impacto a nivel funcional y psicosocial. Los objetivos son: Determinar los momentos de la intervención fonoaudiológica en pacientes con cáncer de laringe tratados con radioterapia, describir la metodología de evaluación clínica y objetiva de la función fonatoria, identificar los factores que colaboran en la mejoría de la calidad vocal, comunicación y calidad de vida del paciente. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Diseño: Caso clínico. Paciente femenino, de 78 años con diagnóstico de carcinoma escamoso moderadamente diferenciado, infiltrante de laringe EI (T1bN0M0). Realizó radioterapia de intensidad modulada. Entrevista pre e intratratamiento, postratamiento de radioterapia y rehabilitación vocal propiamente dicha. Estudio objetivo de la voz (PRAAT). Valoración perceptual de la voz (GRBAS). Encuesta de calidad de vida (VHI).

INTRODUCTION: The majority of the population with laryngeal cancer experiences persistent alterations in the voice because of the pathophysiological effects of radiotherapy, provoking a great impact at functional and psychosocial level. The objectives are to determine the moments of the speech-language intervention in patients with laryngeal cancer treated with radiotherapy, describe the methodology of clinical and objective evaluation of phonatory function, identify the factors that contribute to the improvement of vocal quality, communication and quality of life of the patient. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Design: Clinical case. Female patient, 78 years old with diagnosis of moderately differentiated squamous carcinoma, infiltrating larynx EI (T1bN0M0). She performed modulated intensity radiotherapy. Pre and intra-treatment interview, post-treatment of radiotherapy and vocal rehabilitation proper. Objective study of voice (PRAAT). Perceptual perception of voice (GRBAS). Quality of Life Survey (VHI).

INTRODUÇÃO: A maioria da população com câncer de laringe sofre alterações persistentes na voz devido aos efeitos fisiopatológicos da radioterapia, causando um grande impacto no nível funcional e psicosocial. Os objetivos são determinar os momentos da intervenção fonoaudiológica em pacientes com câncer de laringe tratados com radioterapia, descreva a metodologia de avaliação clínica e objetiva da função fonatória, identificar os fatores que contribuem para a melhoria da qualidade vocal, comunicação e qualidade de vida do paciente. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Design: Caso clínico. Paciente do sexo feminino, 78 anos com diagnóstico de carcinoma escamoso moderadamente diferenciado, infarto da laringe EI (T1bN0M0). Eu executo radioterapia de intensidade modulada. Entrevista pré e intra-tratamento, pós-tratamento de radioterapia e reabilitação vocal própria. Estudo objetivo da voz (PRAAT). Percepção perceptiva da voz (GRBAS). Inquérito à qualidade de vida (VHI)

Maximizing Functional Outcomes in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors: Assessment and Rehabilitation.

With increases in survivorship for patients with head and neck cancer, attention is turning to quality-of-life issues for survivors. Care for these patients is multifaceted. Dysphagia and issues of voice/speech, airway obstruction, neck and shoulder dysfunction, lymphedema, and pain control are important to address. Rehabilitation interventions are patient-specific and aim to prevent, restore, compensate, and palliate symptoms and sequelae of treatment for optimal functioning. Central to providing comprehensive interdisciplinary care are the head and neck surgeon, laryngologist, and speech-language pathologist. Routine functional assessment, long-term follow-up, and regular communication and coordination among these specialists helps maximize quality of life in this challenging patient population.

Estágio de prontidão de pacientes com disfonia comportamental pré e pós-terapia de voz de grupo / Stage of readiness of patients with behavioral dysphonia in pre and post-group voice therapy assessments

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar a efetividade da terapia de grupo no estágio de prontidão de pacientes com disfonia comportamental, bem como identificar que itens da Escala URICA-Voz são mais sensíveis a mudanças pós-terapia de grupo em pacientes com disfonia comportamental. Método Trata-se de um estudo de intervenção realizado com 49 pacientes com disfonia comportamental. A terapia de grupo ocorreu em oito sessões, sendo a primeira e a última de avaliação e as outras seis terapêuticas, com abordagem eclética. A escala URICA-Voz foi utilizada para avaliar o estágio de prontidão em que o paciente se encontra nos momentos pré e pós-terapia de grupo para voz. Foi realizada uma análise estatística descritiva e inferencial para a análise dos resultados. Resultados A maioria dos pacientes que participaram deste estudo era do gênero feminino, não faziam uso profissional da voz e tinham lesão membranosa da prega vocal. A maior parte estava no estágio de Contemplação tanto no momento pré quanto pós-terapia. Houve mudança significativa na comparação do pré e pós-terapia, a maioria dos pacientes apresentou redução no estágio de prontidão e poucos avançaram para um estágio maior. Na comparação dos itens da Escala URICA-V, sete questões apresentaram respostas iguais ou inferiores no momento pós-terapia. Conclusão Não houve diferença estatística ao se comparar as médias do escore total URICA-V no pré e pós-terapia de grupo. Houve mudanças significativas dos estágios de prontidão dos pacientes nos momentos pré e pós-terapia fonoaudiológica de grupo. Sete itens da URICA-V tiveram número igual ou menor no momento pós-intervenção entre os pacientes avaliados.

ABSTRACT Purpose To verify the efficacy of group voice therapy in the stage of readiness and identify which items of the URICA-Voice range are more sensitive to post-therapy change in patients with behavioral dysphonia. Methods An intervention study was conducted on 49 patients with behavioral dysphonia. An eclectic approach to group therapy was implemented over eight sessions, the first and last sessions consisting of assessments. The URICA-Voice range was used to evaluate the stage of readiness at pre- and post-therapy assessments. A descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was implemented for the results. Results Most participants were female, did not make professional use of voice, and had membranous vocal fold lesions. Most of them were in the Contemplation stage at in both moments, pre- and post-therapy. There was no significant change in the comparison of pre- and post-therapy scores. The majority of patients showed a reduction in the stage of readiness and some advanced to a higher stage. In the comparison of URICA-V range items, seven questions had equal or inferior responses in the post-therapy assessment. Conclusion There was no statistical difference when comparing the pre- and post-therapy total average score of the URICA-Voice range. There were significant changes in the stage of readiness of patients in pre- and post-group speech therapy assessments.

Efeito do tempo de execução do exercício vocal sopro e som agudo na voz de mulheres / Effect of performance time of the high-pitched blowing vocal exercise in the voice of women

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar o resultado dos tempos um, três, cinco e sete minutos de execução do exercício vocal sopro e som agudo, em mulheres com disfonia por nódulos vocais e em mulheres sem queixa de voz. Método Trata-se de um estudo experimental com amostra de conveniência consecutiva. Participaram 30 mulheres disfônicas, por nódulos em pregas vocais (GE), e 30 mulheres sem queixa vocal (GC). Todas executaram o exercício sopro e som agudo durante um, três, cinco e sete minutos. As vogais sustentadas /a/ e a contagem de um a dez foram registradas antes e após cada tempo de execução do exercício. As gravações foram randomizadas e avaliadas por tarefa de comparação por quatro fonoaudiólogos utilizando os parâmetros grau de desvio vocal, rugosidade, soprosidade, antenia, tensão e instabilidade (GRBASI). Para a análise acústica, foram obtidos os parâmetros de frequência fundamental, jitter, shimmer, o quociente de perturbação de frequência, quociente de perturbação de amplitude e proporção harmônico ruído. Depois de cada momento de realização do exercício vocal, as participantes responderam em uma escala visual analógica de desconforto vocal. Resultados A análise perceptivo-auditiva no GE demonstrou melhora do grau geral da disfonia e da soprosidade após três minutos e piora destes parâmetros auditivos após sete minutos de realização do exercício. Houve autopercepção do desconforto vocal após sete minutos de realização do exercício no GE. Conclusão O tempo ideal de prescrição do exercício vocal sopro e som agudo para o grupo das mulheres disfônicas foi de três minutos. O mesmo grupo, após sete minutos, apresentou piora na qualidade da voz e autorreferiu desconforto.

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the results of the runtimes of one, three, five, and seven minutes of the high-pitched blowing vocal exercise in women without voice complaints and with dysphonia and vocal nodules. Methods This is an experimental study with a consecutive and convenience sample of 60 women divided into two groups: 30 participants with dysphonia caused by vocal fold nodules (study group - SG) and 30 participants without vocal complaints (control group - CG). All participants performed the high-pitched blowing vocal exercise for one, three, five, and seven minutes. Sustained vowels /a/ and counting from one to ten were recorded before and after each exercise runtime. The recordings were randomized and evaluated by comparison task by four speech-language pathologists using the parameters grade of vocal deviation, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, strain and instability (GRBASI). The acoustic parameters analyzed were fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, period perturbation quotient, amplitude perturbation quotient, and harmonics-to-noise ratio. After each vocal exercise runtime, the participants responded whether they had felt vocal discomfort using a visual analogue scale. Results Auditory-perceptual analysis in the SG showed improved overall severity of dysphonia and breathiness after three minutes and worsening of these acoustic parameters after seven minutes of exercise performance. Participants in the SG reported self-perception of vocal discomfort after seven minutes of exercise performance. Conclusion The ideal prescription time for the high-pitched blowing vocal exercise in dysphonic women is three minutes; worsening of voice quality and perception of vocal discomfort occurs after seven minutes.

The Effectiveness of the Comprehensive Voice Rehabilitation Program Compared With the Vocal Function Exercises Method in Behavioral Dysphonia: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Comprehensive Voice Rehabilitation Program (CVRP) compared with Vocal Function Exercises (VFEs) to treat functional dysphonia. STUDY DESIGN: This is a randomized blinded clinical trial. METHODS: Eighty voice professionals presented with voice complaints for more than 6 months with a functional dysphonia diagnosis. Subjects were randomized into two voice treatment groups: CVRP and VFE. The rehabilitation program consisted of six voice treatment sessions and three assessment sessions performed before, immediately after, and 1 month after treatment. The outcome measures were self-assessment protocols (Voice-Related Quality of Life [V-RQOL] and Voice Handicap Index [VHI]), perceptual evaluation of vocal quality, and a visual examination of the larynx, both blinded. RESULTS: The randomization process produced comparable groups in terms of age, gender, signs, and symptoms. Both groups had positive outcome measures. The CVRP effect size was 1.09 for the V-RQOL, 1.17 for the VHI, 0.79 for vocal perceptual evaluation, and 1.01 for larynx visual examination. The VFE effect size was 0.86 for the V-RQOL, 0.62 for the VHI, 0.48 for the vocal perceptual evaluation, and 0.51 for larynx visual examination. Only 10% of the patients were lost over the study. CONCLUSIONS: Both treatment programs were effective. The probability of a patient improving because of the CVRP treatment was similar to that of the VFE treatment.

ABCLOVE: Voice therapy outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer.

BACKGROUND: Dysphonia related to head and neck cancer is unique, and demands treatment tailored to its unique pathology. Activate exercises, breathing, counseling, laryngeal manipulation, oral resonance, vocal exercises, and elimination of habits (ABCLOVE) is an 8-week multimodality voice therapy program addressing vocal rehabilitation specifically for patients with head and neck cancer. METHODS: Twenty-nine patients with a history of head and neck cancer were enrolled in the ABCLOVE program and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed. Relative average pertubation, maximum phonation time (MPT), pitch range, Consensus Auditory Perceptual Evaluation of Voice (CAPE-V), and Voice Handicap Index (VHI) were assessed. RESULTS: The pretreatment and posttreatment improvements in the relative average pertubation (1.86 vs 0.92), MPT (10.53 seconds vs 15.17 seconds), VHI (51.7 vs 29.9), and pitch range (168 Hz vs 244 Hz) were statistically significant (p < .0001). The subjective CAPE-V ratings improved in all but 2 patients. CONCLUSION: The ABCLOVE voice program provides clinicians with an effective and reproducible method for voice rehabilitation in patients with head and neck cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1810-E1813, 2016.

The Norwegian Voice Handicap Index (VHI-N) patient scores are dependent on voice-related disease group.

The aim of this study is to determine to what extent the Voice Handicap Index-Norwegian (VHI-N) is scored depending on specific laryngological disease. In a multi-center study, 126 healthy subjects and 355 patients with different voice-related diseases answered the VHI-N. The VHI-N scores showed high Cronbach's alpha. Analyses of variance were performed with VHI-N dependent and specific voice-related disease as independent variable, and showed highly significant dependence by group allocation (F(7,461) = 28.0; p < 0.001). When studying post hoc analyses secondary to this ANOVA analysis, we have shown that the control group scored lower than the entire patient groups (all p < 0.001) except the dysplasia group. Aphonic patients scored higher than all the other groups (all p < 0.001) except those with spasmodic dysphonia. The cancer patient group furthermore scored lower than patient groups with recurrent palsy, dysfunctional disease or spasmodic dysphonia (all p < 0.001). In addition, patients with recurrent palsy scored higher than patients with degenerative/inflammatory disease (p < 0.001). No influences of patient age, gender, or smoking were observed in the VHI-N scores. The VHI-N is a psychometrically well-functioning instrument, also at disease-specific levels and discriminates well between health and voice diseases, as well as between different voice-related diseases. The VHI-N may be recommended to be used when monitoring voice-related disease treatment.