Application of Voice Handicap Index score and flexible laryngoscopy in the evaluation of patients with laryngeal disorders

Abstract

Background: Laryngeal disorders are common in our environment, and a number of studies have been carried out. However, there is a paucity of literature with regard to the evaluation of voice-related handicap, and Voice Handicap Index (VHI) score for specific laryngeal disorders. Aim: The aim of this study was to apply the VHI score and flexible laryngoscopy in the evaluation of patients with laryngeal disorders and to determine the mean VHI score for specific laryngeal disorders in our environment. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with the clinical diagnosis of laryngeal disorder who presented at the otolaryngology clinic of our institution. Patients who had previous laryngeal surgery or tracheostomy were excluded. Data was collected on sociodemographic variables, clinical history, and flexible laryngoscopic findings. The VHI score, which comprised of functional, physical, and emotional subscales was also collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 90 patients completed the study; 56.7% of them were males, whereas 43.3% were females. The mean VHI was highest in patients with laryngeal tumor (68.8 ± 14.8) followed by patients with vocal cord palsy (58.2 ± 5.7), but it was lowest in patients with acute laryngitis (27.1 ± 5.3). There was a statistically significant difference in mean VHI for each laryngeal disorder (P = 0.000). Conclusion: The patients with laryngeal tumor and those with vocal cord palsy had the highest VHI score, which affected their functional and emotional well-being. Therefore, applying VHI score and flexible laryngoscopy is important in the holistic evaluation of patients with laryngeal disorders.