[Procedures for integrating a voice unit in an ENT area/service and its results].

OBJECTIVES

(I) To serve as a model for ENT services in the process of creating a voice unit and (II) to show the results obtained in our Voice Unit over the past 12 months.

METHODS

Sections on Voice Unit Functions, Organisation and Procedures are presented, as well as the study of 122 patients: an assessment of patient self-perception using the Voice Handicap Index, diagnostic category, Voice Unit diagnosis, previous treatments and treatments proposed by the Unit.

RESULTS

The results highlight that Voice Handicap Index scores tend towards mild and moderate evaluations; that the most frequent pathological group are exudative lesions affecting Reinke's space; that there are diagnostic discrepancies of more than 50% between the general ENT consultations and the Voice Unit; and that the most common treatment is speech and language therapy (45%), followed by phonosurgery (28%).

CONCLUSIONS

The main aim of the Voice Unit is to achieve maximum effectiveness and quality in its various functions. Correct diagnosis and treatment increases effectiveness and allows better use of resources; achieving this requires a minimal, essential setup: laryngostroboscope, a multidimensional protocol and interdisciplinary work.