The proposal of this basic protocol is an attempt to reach better agreement and uniformity concerning the methodology for
functional assessment of pathologic voices. The purpose is to allow relevant comparisons with the literature when presenting
/ publishing the results of voice treatment, e.g. a phonosurgical technique, or a new / improved instrument or procedure for
investigating the pathological voice. Meta-analyses of the results of voice treatments are generally limited and may even
be impossible owing to the major diversity in the ways functional outcomes are assessed. A multidimensional set of minimal
basic measurements suitable for all “common” dysphonias is proposed. It includes five different approaches: perception (grade,
roughness, breathiness), videostroboscopy (closure, regularity, mucosal wave and symmetry), acoustics (jitter, shimmer, Fo-range
and softest intensity), aerodynamics (phonation quotient), and subjective rating by the patient. The protocol is elaborated
on the basis of an exhaustive review of the literature, of the experience of the Committee members, and of plenary discussions
within the European Laryngological Society. Instrumentation is kept to a minimum, but it is considered essential for professionals
performing phonosurgery.
Keywords Voice assessment - Dysphonia assessment - Phonosurgery - Meta-analysis - Standardisation
Received: 18 May 2000 / Accepted: 17 October 2000