Duration and Frequency Characteristics of Speech and Voice following Supracricoid Partial Laryngectomy

Abstract

Selected characteristics were compared in the speech and voice of 28 patients treated with a supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL) and of 14 normal adult laryngeal (NAL) speakers. Tape-recorded speech samples were measured for durational features with a stopwatch. Frequency features were analyzed with the Computerized Speech Lab and a multidimensional voice program. The SCPL speech proved comparable to NAL speech in average fundamental frequency. The SCPL speech and voice were statistically less efficient than NAL speech in fundamental frequency range, jitter, shimmer, noise to harmonics ratio, maximum phonation time, speech rate, and phrase grouping. The completion of an arytenoid cartilage resection did not statistically modify the duration and frequency features of SCPL speakers. Among SCPL speakers 1) the average fundamental frequency was statistically higher (p = .02) in patients who underwent a cricohyoidoepiglottopexy when compared to patients who underwent a cricohyoidopexy, 2) the maximum phonation time was statistically related to the patient's age (p = .002), and 3) the jitter and shimmer values were statistically related (p = .01 and p = .005) to the time elapsed since SCPL completion. Explanations and implications of these findings are discussed.