Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Supervisor

Dr. Philip Doyle

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of visual feedback in facilitating pitch control using a pressure sensitive electrolarynx (EL). This proof-of-concept pilot study was a single-subject design that included two healthy adults (1 female aged 23;6 years old, and 1 male aged 67;0 years old). Both participants were provided with visual feedback over two consecutive weeks. Changes in pitch and force control accuracy over 4 hours were analyzed. The results demonstrated that both participants showed an improvement in force control accuracy from the first to the last training session. The results of this proof-of-concept study are a preliminary step towards the development of a clinical training protocol for the use of a pressure sensitive EL. Further, these results highlight the importance of developing a clinically relevant tool for the improvement of a laryngectomee’s quality of life postlaryngectomy.

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