Adjustable Phonatory PEEP to Treat Dysphonia: A Preliminary Investigation of Progressive Masked Voice Exercises (PMVE)

Abstract

The Progressive Masked Voice Exercises (PMVE) with an innovative semioccluded ventilation mask fitted and adjustable positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) valve was evaluated. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the PMVE with the PEEP device and the Vocal Function Exercise (VFE) program on acoustic, auditory-perceptual, aerodynamic, and self-report measures. Twenty-five participants diagnosed with voice disorders met the criteria. Participants were randomly assigned to either the PMVE or the VFE group for a 6-week home therapy program. Pre- and post-data were analyzed with parametric and nonparametric statistics. Acoustic and aerodynamic measures showed no between-group or interaction group × time effects; however, a main effect of time was observed for all but one of the eight acoustic variables, indicating that both groups improved. Additional within-group analysis showed improvements in two of the eight variables for the PMVE program and four for the VFE program. No between-group differences were observed for the auditory-perceptual judgments using the GRBASI scale; however, the strain was improved for the VFE group. No differences in self-report measures were also seen, except for the VFE group. This study provides preliminary evidence for the PMVE therapy program. Further research is needed in large and diverse samples and clinical application is invited.

Keywords

VFE - Progressive Masked Voice Exercises - PEEP - SOVTE

Disclosures

The lead investigator (M.K.F.) holds a trademark-pending and patent-pending status for PMVE and the associated protocol with all its reasonable present and future derivations. The stated aim of this approach is to protect intellectual property and future research endeavors while simultaneously claiming any rights to profit. With these rights claimed, it is accepted that clinicians with appropriate certification, licensure, and training may attempt general use of the PMVE protocol with their own patient populations with the tacit understanding being that these clinicians take responsibility for any patient injuries or therapy complications associated with the PMVE device or associated protocol in its present or future derivations. The PMVE protocol should only be applied to appropriate patient populations. The aforementioned training may be obtained from the lead investigator (M.K.F.) through the website www.voicetherapytools.com or by emailing [e-mail].

Publication History

Article published online:
18 December 2024

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