Update on pediatric voice and airway disorders: assessment and care.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To investigate the status of the recent literature focused on studying the assessment and treatment of pediatric voice and airway disorders using both established and novel techniques.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent research regarding voice assessment and treatment reveals the use of systematic and innovative approaches when collecting instrumental and perceptual voice data. There are recent advancements in certain surgical interventions designed to minimize complications. Wider use of functional endoscopic imaging of the pediatric larynx is improving our understanding of childhood voice production and airway management. There is also an important emerging focus on quantifying the impact of having a childhood voice disorder through the use of new tools. Although there is an increase in pediatric voice and airway research, many studies tend to be entirely descriptive rather than quantitative. There continues to be little specific research that uses prospective, longer-term and formal voice outcomes before and after behavioral and surgical interventions.

SUMMARY: Pediatric voice and airway disorders are an important childhood health problem. Voice assessment in children should include formal perceptual and instrumental evaluations, including sophisticated acoustic, aerodynamic and imaging modalities. The care of these children requires a collaborative approach that includes systematic and innovative treatment methods.