[Voice exercise therapy versus electrostimulation therapy in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis].
BACKGROUND
Several behavioural voice treatment procedures have been suggested for unilateral vocal fold paresis. However, data regarding their effectiveness and efficiency are sparse. Here we compare the outcome of traditional voice treatment versus electrostimulation voice exercise.


METHODS
A total of 24 patients participated voluntarily in a prospective randomised trial. Vocal fold irregularity and maximum phonation time were used as dependent variables.


RESULTS
Statistical analysis indicated slight though not significant differences favouring electrostimulation supported vocal exercises.


CONCLUSIONS
Further studies are needed to fully explore the benefits and effectiveness of the various treatment procedures. These studies should include subjective parameters (voice handicap) as well as efficacy parameters.
Ptok
M
M
Klinik und Poliklinik für Phoniatrie und Pädaudiologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover. Ptok.Martin@MH-Hannover.DE
Strack
D
D
D000328:Adult; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014826:Vocal Cord Paralysis / Q000628:therapy*