Evaluation of the Voice Parameters Following Supracricoid Partial Laryngectomy

Sun, Dong Il; Kim, Min Sik; Song, Seung Heon; Rhee, Soo Jin; Cho, Kwang Jae; Kim, Hyung Tae; Cho, Seung Ho

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Conservation laryngeal surgery is designed to remove the cancer mass completely while preserving the physiologic functions of the larynx. Recently, the supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL) has broadened the spectrum of reliable techniques available to conservation laryngeal surgeons. Much research has been devoted to the surgical technique and oncological results of SCPL, but only a few signi6cant objective reports of the phonatory results are available presently. This study was designed to analyze the phonatory results achieved after SCPL for laryngeal cancer.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Selected characteristics of the speech and voice were compared in 25 patients who had undergone SCPL and 10 normal adult laryngeal (NAL) speakers. Durational and frequency features were analyzed with the CSL and the MDVP.
RESULTS
SCPL speech proved comparable to NAL speech at the average fundamental frequency. SCPL spech and voice were statistically less efficient than NAL speech in jitter, shimmer, harmonics-to-noise ratio, mean airflow rate, maximal phonation time, and subglottic pressure (p<0.01). The completion of an arytenoid cartilage resection and/or anterior cricoid cartilage removal did not statistically modify the durational and frequency features of SCPL speakers (p <0.01).
CONCLUSION
The voice parameters of SCPL speakers were different from those of the NAL speakers, but patients were thought to be allowed social interaction.