Abstract
Background: Hoarseness is a common clinical complaint that negatively affects communication, professional performance, and quality of life. Voice exercise therapy has emerged as a cornerstone in the non-surgical management of dysphonia. However, studies integrating subjective and objective voice parameters remain limited.
Objective: To retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of structured voice exercise therapy in patients with hoarseness using multidimensional voice assessment parameters.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 46 patients diagnosed with dysphonia who underwent structured voice exercise therapy. Pre- and post-treatment evaluations included the Voice Handicap Index (VHI), GRBAS perceptual voice scale, Maximum Phonation Time (MPT), jitter, and shimmer measurements. Statistical analysis was performed using paired-sample t-tests.
Results: Significant improvements were observed in all evaluated parameters following therapy. Mean VHI scores decreased from 66.1 to 41.8 (p < 0.001), while GRBAS scores improved from 9.4 to 4.7 (p < 0.001). MPT values increased from 8.1 seconds to 14.2 seconds (p < 0.001). Jitter and shimmer values demonstrated significant reductions after treatment (both p < 0.001). These findings indicate clinically meaningful improvements in both subjective and objective voice quality.
Conclusion: Structured voice exercise therapy significantly improves perceptual, acoustic, and patient-reported voice outcomes in patients with hoarseness. Multidimensional assessment tools provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating therapeutic success.
