Effects of sound pressure levels on fundamental frequency in tracheoesophageal speakers

Abstract

The quality of tracheoesophageal (TE) voice after laryngectomy is dependent on numerous factors. The relative contribution of specific variables is not well described. To evaluate the modulation of fundamental frequency (F0)—pitch—in TE speakers after total laryngectomy and voice restoration, we instructed 11 TE speakers to complete a series of vocal tasks under standardized conditions. All patients underwent standard laryngectomy with appropriate neck dissection and full-course radiation therapy. Each speaker produced 4 sustained phonations at distinct levels. Sound pressure level (SPL)—intensity—and F0 measurements were taken for each level. Statistical analysis to assess the relative effect of SPL on F0 demonstrated a statistically significant effect. However, the knowledge of SPL allowed only a 9% greater prediction of F0, indicating that factors other than SPL are integral to the modulation of F0 by TE speakers. These data lend further support to the theory that TE voice is an active process incorporating the myoelastic properties of the pharyngoesophageal segment as well as the properties of aerodynamic flow. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1999;121:23-6.)