Objective analysis of voice changes in a hemodialysis session and its correlation with ultrafiltration

AbstractIntroduction: The aim of the study is to analyze the voice changes occurring during a hemodialysis session objectively and to investigate the statistical correlation between voice changes and ultrafiltration, blood pressure, dry weight and the other variables of the patients. Materials and methods: A total of 169 patients were included in the study. Electronic voice recordings of the patients were performed with the aim of making objective voice analysis before and after dialysis. Fundamental frequency measurements occurring at the level of the larynx (Fo) and harmonic-to-noise ratio (HNR) were measured from these voice recordings. Results: When the voice recordings obtained from 169 hemodialysis patients before and after dialysis were investigated, it was observed that a significant increase occurred in the Fo (from 164.52 ± 43.36 Hz to 193.19 ± 47.08 Hz, p < 0.01). When the change in HNR was investigated, a significant reduction was determined in the post-dialysis measurements (4.6 ± 3.23 dB) co...