{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Automatic speaking valve in tracheo-esophageal speech: treatment proposal for a widespread usage.
{Author}: Longobardi Y;D'Alatri L;Brandi VF;Mari G;Marenda ME;Marchese MR;Galli J;Parrilla C;
{Journal}: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol
{Volume}: 281
{Issue}: 6
{Year}: 2024 Jun 3
{Factor}: 3.236
{DOI}: 10.1007/s00405-024-08605-0
{Abstract}: <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>Aim of this study was to calculate the percentage of the Automatic Speaking Valve (ASV) use in a large cohort of laryngectomized patients with voice prosthesis (VP) and to analyze the main reasons for non-use. Subsequently, a specific rehabilitation training was proposed.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>One hundred-ten laryngectomized patients with VP were enrolled in the first phase of the study (census). Among them, 57 patients were included in the second phase (intervention), in which a training based on moving phonatory exercises was proposed. Structured questionnaires were used before and after training in order to investigate ASV use rate (days/week and hours/day; reasons for impeding the ASV use), average adhesive life-time during ASV use; hands-free speech duration; skin irritation. Patients also expressed their degree of on a VAS scale from 0 to 100.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>In the census phase the percentage of use of ASV (everyday, without problems) was equal to 17.27% (19/110 patients). The main causes of disuse concerned excessive fatigue and poor durability of the adhesives. The analysis of the results pre vs. post-training showed a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) in all the investigated parameters. Patients reported a good level of treatment compliance (average frequency of performing exercises equal to 4.2 ± 2.5 days/week for 1.4 ± 1.01 h/day) and high degrees of satisfaction. After treatment, the percentage of use of AVS increased by 43% reaching a rate of 60% (66/110 patients).<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>A specific and targeted approach that simulate the phonatory and breathing difficulties of everyday life can increase the ASV usage rate.