Prognostic indicators of esophageal speech

Abstract

Investigation was made of personal characteristics correlated with effective esophageal speech. A test battery and questionnaire were administered to 30 laryngectomees. Ss were dichotomized into “good” and “poor” speakers by judgments of taped speech samples. The performances of these two groups on the tests were compared by application of t tests. Mean scores of the two groups were statistically different on three measures: SRA Nonverbal Test, Space Visualization Test, and Lip Movement Test (diadochokinetic rate). A Predictive Test Battery was recommended for use in therapy, based on these findings.