Comparison of Vocal Function with Different Voice Prostheses in Same Patient

Abstract

Several methods to restore voice in laryngectomees have been developed, including tracheo-esophageal voice with prostheses. Two different types of vocal prosthesis, the Groningen voice button and Provox 2, are available in Japan. While both are widely regarded as good methods, little has been reported comparing prosthetic vocal quality and function of different vocal prostheses used in the same patient.
Six laryngectomees had their vocal prosthesis changed from the Groningen voice button to Provox 2 as of June 2011. The data regarding these six patients is the basis of this study. Voice quality was assessed by perceptual voice analysis using speech articulation, and vocal function was assessed by acoustic measures (maximum phonation time and fundamental frequency) and spectrum analysis (pitch perturbation quotient [PPQ] and amplitude perturbation quotient [APQ]). Each patient also completed VHI-10 and original questionnaires.
There was no significant difference in vocal quality or function between the two types of vocal prosthesis and no patient complained of any vocal change. One patient developed a salivary fistula, but this was easily handled with suturation. There seemed to be no difficulty or difference in the changing of voice prostheses, which suggests that voice prostheses can be changed without any negative impact on the patient.