Perceptual characteristics of tracheoesophageal speech production using the new indwelling Provox Vega voice prosthesis: a randomized controlled crossover trial.
BACKGROUND
The objective of this study was to determine if the design enhancements incorporated into the new Provox Vega Indwelling Voice prostheses result in any positive benefits in vivo.


METHODS
Using a randomized, crossover study design, 31 participants using tracheoesophageal speech postlaryngectomy completed a 3-week trial of the Provox Vega and a comparator device. Main outcome measures included patient perceptions of vocal effort and quality using each device, and perceptual judgments of voice quality produced.


RESULTS
The majority of patients (72%) indicated the Provox Vega gave them overall better voice quality and 52% felt they required less effort to phonate. Voice samples produced with the Provox Vega were also perceived by listeners to be significantly (p < .05) less strained, easier to understand, produced with less effort, and the better speech sample overall.


CONCLUSIONS
Results support that the aerodynamic improvements incorporated in the design of the new Provox Vega facilitate enhanced voice and speech qualities.
Ward
Elizabeth C
EC
Division of Speech Pathology, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. liz.ward@uq.edu.au
Hancock
Kelli
K
Lawson
Nadine
N
van As-Brooks
Corina J
CJ
D000368:Aged; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007825:Laryngectomy / Q000379:methods / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D007831:Larynx, Artificial; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D010465:Perception; D010699:Phonation; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011788:Quality of Life; D011793:Queensland; D013065:Speech Intelligibility; D013072:Speech, Esophageal / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014833:Voice Quality