To compare subjective and objective voice-quality parameters between asymptomatic
paradoxical vocal fold motion dysfunction (PVFMD) patients and healthy individuals.
Prospective.
A total number of 12 patients with PVFMD and 12 healthy control subjects had voice
evaluations by means of laryngostroboscopy, acoustic analysis (jitter, shimmer, and
harmonics-to-noise ratio [HNR]), aerodynamic measurements (maximum phonation time
[MPT], s/z ratio), and perceptual analysis (Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenicity,
and Strain Scale [GRBAS] and Voice Handicap Index-10 [VHI-10] scales). Evaluations
were conducted when all the patients were asymptomatic.
False vocal cord adduction, anteroposterior constriction of the supraglottic larynx,
decreased amplitude, and decreased mucosal wave were observed in the great majority
of the PVFMD patients during laryngostroboscopy. Mean jitter and shimmer rates were
significantly high in PVFMD patients and there was no significant difference in mean
HNR between groups (P<0.05). Mean MPT was significantly long in control subjects (P<0.05)
and mean s/z ratio was nearly equal between patients and control subjects. There was
a statistically significant difference between groups about GRBAS and VHI-10 scales
(P<0.05).
Based on the subjective and objective voice parameters, voice quality is significantly
impaired in asymptomatic PVFMD patients when compared with the healthy control subjects.
Copyright © 2010 The Voice Foundation. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.