Importance of Cooperation between Otolaryngologists and Speech Language Pathologists

Treatments for voice disorders consist of surgical intervention, medical intervention, and voice therapy. Voice therapy has primarily been applied in cases of nonorganic dysphonia, including muscle tension dysphonia and mutational falsetto. However, the application of voice therapy has recently expanded to include benign vocal fold lesions, presbyphonia, and vocal fold paralysis, among other targets. Otolaryngologists need to determine the appropriateness of the application of voice therapy and thus must be familiar with the evidence supporting voice therapy. In addition, to facilitate voice therapy, it is important for a speech language pathologist (SLP) to attend medical examinations performed by an otolaryngologist. This enables otolaryngologists and SLPs to share knowledge concerning the patient’s laryngeal function as well as the patient’s wishes. These will create synergy that will promote effective patient care.