[Therapeutic effects of electrical stimulation therapy on vocal fold vibration irregularity].

BACKGROUND

Vocal fold vibration may be adversely affected by numerous conditions. We studied whether electrical stimulation can alleviate vocal fold vibration irregularity.

METHODS

A total of 90 patients with varying degrees of vocal fold vibration irregularity due to unilateral vocal fold paresis were recruited and received either electrical stimulation therapy or a voice exercise/behavioral treatment. Vocal fold vibration irregularity was calculated from a speech sample before and after therapy.

RESULTS

After 3 months, the increase in vibration stability was significantly greater for patients who received electrical stimulation therapy compared with patients who received traditional voice therapy.

DISCUSSION: Voice control includes vocal fold vibration regularity. It appears that electrical stimulation therapy can be used effectively in patients with vocal fold paresis and concomitant loss of voice control.