A case of the superior laryngeal nerve paresis treated with local Novafon vibration
The presented research focuses on the case of chronic idiopathic superior laryngeal nerve paresis (SLNp) treated with an innovative method of voice therapy – Novafon Local Vibration Voice Therapy (NLVVT). It was assumed that local vibrations of the cricothyroid muscle and its nerve endings during vocal exercises would improve the voice functioning in SLNp.
- NLVVT significantly expanded the vocal profile, increased the basic frequency of speech and improved acoustic indicators of voice quality.
- The beneficial effects of NLVVT appeared to be long-term.
Prepared on the basis of:
A Case of Nervus Laryngeus Superior Paresis Treated With Novafon Local Vibration Voice Therapy. Barsties V Latoszek B, Watts CR. J Voice. 2021 May;35(3):406-410.
Study population
The study included the case of a 61-year-old man diagnosed with functional dysphonia (non-phonotraumatic dysphonia) about 10 years earlier. For the past 5 years, the patient has been treated with standard therapy, but with no noticeable improvement. The main symptoms of dysphonia included: voice fatigue, rough voice quality, decreased volume and high-pitched falsetto.
Test procedure
Measurements of acoustics, aerodynamics and self-assessment of voice impairment were performed before and after each of the 5 weeks of NLVVT, as well as one week and one month follow-ups after the end of NLVVT.
Use of vibration in the study
A classic device generating sound waves from Novafon (Germany) and vibrations with a frequency of 100 Hz was used, directed primarily at the cricothyroid muscle.
Results
NLVVT significantly extended the vocal profile, increased the basic frequency of speech and improved acoustic indicators of voice quality. A follow-up study one month after treatment showed long-term maintenance of the beneficial effects of NLVVT.
Comment
The innovative NLVVT program used in the treatment of the presented SLNp case resulted in the functional, perceptual and acoustic improvement, thus improvement of the voice quality and function. Therefore, further studies on a larger number of patients with well-designed control conditions are necessary.
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