Validation of the Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI) Version 03.01 in Italian.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to validate the Acoustic Voice Quality Index version 03.01 in the Italian language (AVQIv3-IT). METHODS: A total of 150 native Italian speakers with normal voices (n = 50) and with various voice disorders (n = 100) were enrolled. Voice samples of a sustained vowel (SV) [a:] and five phonetically balanced continuous speech (CS) samples were recorded. The most appropriate syllable number for a standardized voiced CS approximating 3 seconds was identified. Perceptual evaluations of the overall voice quality were performed by three expert voice clinicians using the G score of the GRBAS scale. AVQIs were calculated using a 3 seconds mid-vowel selection of the SV [a:] and the standardized syllable number of the CS. Finally, concurrent validity and diagnostic accuracy of AVQIv3-IT were analysed. RESULTS: The most appropriate syllable number for a standardized CS approximating 3 seconds in Italian was identified as 25. The perceptual ratings showed robust intra- and inter-rater reliability. A strong correlation was found between AVQI scores and overall voice quality perceptual evaluations (r = 0.81, P < 0.001). The best diagnostic outcome for AVQIv3-IT was found for a threshold of 2.35 (sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 92%). CONCLUSIONS: AVQIv3-IT was demonstrated to be a valid and robust tool for quantifying overall acoustic voice quality in the Italian speaking population.

Phonosurgical Injection Approaches for Voice Restoration After Open Partial Horizontal Laryngectomies: A Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the efficacy of phonosurgical corrective approaches based on injection laryngoplasties and pharyngoplasties followed by speech therapy for voice restoration after unsatisfactory phonatory results of open partial horizontal laryngectomies. METHODS: Ten patients with not satisfying phonatory results despite speech therapy after type II or type III open partial horizontal laryngectomies (OPHLs) were included. Each patient underwent a voice restoration program based on phonosurgery (injection laryngoplasty and/or injection pharyngoplasty) with hyaluronic acid and/or calcium hydroxyapatite, followed by post-surgical voice rehabilitation. Voices were recorded and analysed through spectrographic, aerodynamic, perceptual, laryngoscopic and self-assessment evaluations before the treatment (T0), after 1 month (T1) and after three months (T2). RESULTS: Significant improvements in the patients voices were found between T0, T1 and T2 concerning acoustic, perceptual, aerodynamic, laryngoscopic and self assessment evaluations. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study support phonosurgical injection procedures followed by speech therapy as an effective strategy for voice restoration after type II or type III OPHLs in selected patients.