2016 Volume 28 Issue 2 Pages 70-76
The study introduced methods that allow for the subjective evaluation of dysphonia patients using the Japanese recommended versions of evaluation tools such as the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) and the VoiceRelated Quality of Life (V-RQOL). The results were reported at our department. The VHI and V-RQOL scores of healthy subjects were the same as those in previous reports. In addition, a negative correlation between the VHI and V-RQOL scores was recognized. In the dysphonia cases, female patients and patients in their 20s and 30s showed poor VHI and V-RQOL scores. Patients with functional dysphonia and vocal cord paralysis showed poor VHI and V-RQOL scores. The scores were recognized to improve after treatment and were useful for the evaluation of treatment effect. Based on the results of the present study, it was considered that both the VHI and V-RQOL could be objectively-effective tools that allow for the subjective evaluation of dysphonia, and that they should be implemented in a proactive manner.
