Efficacy of Voice Therapy in Total Thyroidectomy: A Single Case Study

Abstract

Background: Thyroidectomy is known to cause changes in voice. However limited studies have been done examining the effects of voice therapy on persons with thyroidectomy.Aim: The present study is aimed at garnering evidence for the efficacy of voice therapy post near total thyroidectomy.Method: The participant was a thirty-six-year-old female client diagnosed as having Severe Hoarse Voice with right vocal cord paralysis secondary to near total thyroidectomy (multi nodular goitre). A detailed voice evaluation was done followed by structured therapy techniques.Results: The results revealed positive changes in the vocal behaviour of the subject pre- and post-therapy as revealed by qualitative and quantitative measures.Conclusion: These findings support that voice therapy is crucial as a major treatment options to improve voice quality for individuals post thyroidectomy. Further research with more evidences in a greater number of clients is warranted in this area.