Sherry Fu1, Deborah G Theodoros2, Elizabeth C Ward3. 1. The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Electronic address: sherry.fu@uqconnect.edu.au. 2. The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. 3. The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This pilot study examined voice outcomes and patient perceptions after intensive voice therapy for vocal fold nodules via telepractice. STUDY DESIGN: Pilot, within-subjects experimental trial. METHODS: Participants included 10 women diagnosed with bilateral vocal fold nodules who received intensive voice treatment via a free videoconferencing platform Skype, (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA). All participants completed one vocal hygiene session in person, followed by eight sessions of therapy via telepractice over 3 weeks. Before and immediately after treatment, patients attended a clinic in person to complete perceptual, stroboscopic, acoustic, and physiological assessments of vocal function. Analyses were performed by a speech-language pathologist and an otolaryngologist independent to and blinded to the study. Participants also completed the Voice Handicap Index and a telepractice satisfaction questionnaire, or an anticipated satisfaction questionnaire, before and after the treatment. RESULTS: Significant improvements were found in perceptual, vocal fold function, acoustic, and physiological parameters as well as nodule sizes and patient perceptions of voice-related quality of life post-treatment. Participants were highly positive about their first experience with telepractice. Results were similar to those from a separate study investigating the effects of an intensive voice therapy delivered in conventional face-to-face (FTF) format. CONCLUSIONS: This study is consistent with possible benefits of telepractice in the delivery of intensive treatment for vocal fold nodules. Pending final verification with a FTF comparison group, telepractice could be recommended as an alternate treatment modality for patients with vocal fold nodules.
OBJECTIVES: This pilot study examined voice outcomes and patient perceptions after intensive voice therapy for vocal fold nodules via telepractice. STUDY DESIGN: Pilot, within-subjects experimental trial. METHODS:Participants included 10 women diagnosed with bilateral vocal fold nodules who received intensive voice treatment via a free videoconferencing platform Skype, (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA). All participants completed one vocal hygiene session in person, followed by eight sessions of therapy via telepractice over 3 weeks. Before and immediately after treatment, patients attended a clinic in person to complete perceptual, stroboscopic, acoustic, and physiological assessments of vocal function. Analyses were performed by a speech-language pathologist and an otolaryngologist independent to and blinded to the study. Participants also completed the Voice Handicap Index and a telepractice satisfaction questionnaire, or an anticipated satisfaction questionnaire, before and after the treatment. RESULTS: Significant improvements were found in perceptual, vocal fold function, acoustic, and physiological parameters as well as nodule sizes and patient perceptions of voice-related quality of life post-treatment. Participants were highly positive about their first experience with telepractice. Results were similar to those from a separate study investigating the effects of an intensive voice therapy delivered in conventional face-to-face (FTF) format. CONCLUSIONS: This study is consistent with possible benefits of telepractice in the delivery of intensive treatment for vocal fold nodules. Pending final verification with a FTF comparison group, telepractice could be recommended as an alternate treatment modality for patients with vocal fold nodules.
Authors: Kimberly L Dahl; Hasini R Weerathunge; Daniel P Buckley; Anton S Dolling; Manuel Díaz-Cádiz; Lauren F Tracy; Cara E Stepp Journal: Am J Speech Lang Pathol Date: 2021-09-02 Impact factor: 4.018
Authors: Viann N Nguyen-Feng; Patricia A Frazier; Ali Stockness; Scott Lunos; Alexis N Hoedeman; Stephanie Misono Journal: Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol Date: 2019-04-26 Impact factor: 1.547