The Effect of Voice Therapy in Vocal Polyp Patients

성대용종 환자의 음성치료 효과

Vocal polyps are benign phonotraumatic lesions which are traditionally treated using phonomicrosurgical techniques. In the case of hyperfunctional voice use, voice therapy is effective and results in voice improvement. However, the utility of voice therapy about vocal polyp is in great demand. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of voice therapy in patients with vocal polyps. The authors reviewed the medical records of 193 patients with vocal nodules or vocal polyps, and 64 patients (31 nodules and 33 polyps) were enrolled. All of the subjects had received explanation of problems, vocal hygiene education, and been treated by the $SKMVTT^{(R)}$ (Seong-Tae Kim's multiple voice therapy technique) ranging from 4 to 16 sessions (mean: 8.6 sessions). All subjects were examined by perceptual assessment, acoustic and aerodynamic measures, and VRP (voice range profile). In perceptual assessment, patients with vocal nodules had more breathy and strained voices than the vocal polyp group. Both groups significantly reduced rough, breathy voice after voice therapy. Patients with vocal polyps had worse voice quality than patients with nodules in acoustic measures. Both groups showed reduced jitter and shimmer after voice therapy. In aerodynamic measures, MPT and Psub were increased, and MFR was reduced (p<.05). Participants' frequency range and intensity range were increased after voice therapy, but only frequency range resulted in a significant difference (p<.05). In conclusion, the therapeutic effect of voice therapy in patients with vocal nodules and polyps was demonstrated perceptually and acoustically. We can suggest that voice therapy, including advice, vocal hygiene, and $SKMVTT^{(R)}$ is a useful as an initial choice of treatment for patients with vocal polyps before considering a surgical approach.