Development of an e‐Health Software for Speech and Swallowing Rehabilitation Following Laryngectomy

ABSTRACT Objectives We present data from a feasibility study where patients following laryngectomy and/or hemi‐laryngectomy received speech and swallowing rehabilitation via a newly designed e‐health software. Methods Patients were recruited during their stay at the hospital and were equipped with a...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: M. Gugatschka, N. Egger, R. Rehb, C. Reiter, M. Rudes, R. Mischak, K. Haspl
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wiley 2025-04-01
Series:Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1002/lio2.70136
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Summary:ABSTRACT Objectives We present data from a feasibility study where patients following laryngectomy and/or hemi‐laryngectomy received speech and swallowing rehabilitation via a newly designed e‐health software. Methods Patients were recruited during their stay at the hospital and were equipped with a tablet upon discharge. Alternatively, patients who already underwent training but did not improve significantly were included to receive a more intense training. The training protocol comprised asynchronous (e.g., self‐assessment and pre‐defining training protocols) and synchronous (e.g., video communication) therapies; participation lasted for 8 weeks. General demographic parameters, as well as specific parameters (quality of life, speech comprehensibility) were assessed pre‐ and post‐interventional. Results Our cohort consisted of eight patients (mean age: 69 years.) Essential outcome parameters improved significantly (weight, comprehensibility for syllables). Conclusion Our feasibility study showed that our software is safe and easy‐to‐use and can be easily integrated into patients' everyday lives. Key parameters such as weight and comprehensibility improved after just 8 weeks of training. Level of Evidence NA
ISSN:2378-8038