SUMMARY
Purpose
Unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) is a neurological voice disorder that is often
first treated by a speech-language pathologist (SLP). In literature, little consensus
is found regarding voice therapy onset, duration, frequency, and content. The aim
of the current study is to investigate the clinical practice of SLPs for treatment
of UVFP regarding diagnostics and treatment characteristics. Additionally, the study
examined the personal experiences of SLPs regarding UVFP care.
Method
An online survey was completed by 37 respondents, all SLPs with experience in treating
UVFP. Demographic characteristics, experiences with voice assessments and treatment
modalities were examined. Lastly, experiences and opinions of SLPs on evidence-based
practice and their own clinical practice were surveyed.
Results
Almost all respondents used a multidimensional voice assessment with findings from
laryngovideostroboscopy to assess UVFP. Laryngeal electromyography is not yet integrated
in regular clinical practices. The most commonly used vocal techniques were resonant
voice exercises, laryngeal manipulation, semioccluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTEs),
vocal hygiene, and Vocal Function Exercises, with SOVTEs most often considered effective.
A total of 75% of the respondents feel confident treating UVFP, and 87.6% believe
it is important to stay updated on evidence-based practice. Variation in therapy timing
and dosage was observed, and 48.4% of SLPs usually started early voice therapy within
4 weeks after UVFP onset.
Conclusion
Flemish SLPs generally feel confident treating UVFP patients and show interest in
improving evidence-based practice. Initiatives to train clinicians further in UVFP
care and encouraging SLPs to provide practice-based evidence will enhance the knowledge
base for evidence-based practice in UFVP.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: May 06, 2023
Accepted:
April 13,
2023
Publication stage
In Press Corrected ProofIdentification
Copyright
© 2023 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
