Procedures for Integrating a Voice Unit in an ENT Area/Service and its Results

Objectives: (I) To serve as a model for ENT services in the process of creating a Voice Unit and (II) to show the results obtained in our Voice Unit over the past 12 months. Methods: Sections on Voice Unit Functions, Organisation, and Procedures are presented, as well as the study of 122 patients: an assessment of patient self-perception using the Voice Handicap Index, diagnostic category, Voice Unit diagnosis, previous treatments, and treatments proposed by the Unit. Results: The results highlight that Voice Handicap Index scores tend towards mild and moderate evaluations; that the most frequent pathological group are exudative lesions affecting Reinke’s space; that there are diagnostic discrepancies of more than 50% between the general ENT consultations and the Voice Unit; and that the most common treatment is speech and language therapy (45%), followed by phonosurgery (28%). Conclusions: The main aim of the Voice Unit is to achieve maximum effectiveness and quality in its various functions. Correct diagnosis and treatment increase effectiveness and allow better use of resources; achieving this requires a minimal, essential setup: laryngostroboscope, a multidimensional protocol and interdisciplinary work. © 2010 Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.