Comparison of voice quality in patients with GERD-related larynx and layngopharynx disorders before and after therapy.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare voice quality in patients with GERD-related changes in the larynx and laryngopharynx before and after treatment. 249 consecutive patients diagnosed with GERD-related changes in larynx and laryngopharynx were involved in this retrospective study (166 females, 83 males). Patients completed the questionnaire RSI. The GRBAS scale was used for subjective voice evaluation. Objective voice analysis was performed with the use of KAY Elemetrics Model CSL 4300 (CSL 4305, MDVP). In women, the mean RSI score (by Belafsky) was 12.69, in men 12.6. In both analyzed groups, the laryngeal symptoms related to GERD diminished after treatment. Perceptual assessment of voice (GRBAS) revealed G2R1B0A0S1 in women and G2R2B0A0S1 in men. In both the male and female group before treatment, the dominant sonogram was type III in Remacle's scale, IInd degree of hoarseness in Yanagihara's scale, phonation time was shortened, and MDVP parameters were abnormal. After treatment there was statistically significant improvement in the following parameters: G, R, B, and S in sonogram, degree of hoarseness, some of MDVP parameters (Fhi, RAP and PPQ in females, and F0 and Flo in males), and less irregularity in tomogram. In all patients no restoration of normal voice was noted after treatment despite disappearance of the gastrological symptoms.