Evaluation of pediatric voice handicap index and pediatric voice related quality of life before and after adenotonsillectomy in pediatric population.

Objective: To study changes in Pediatric Voice Handicap Index (PVHI) and Pediatric Voice Related Quality of Life (PVRQOL) before and after adenotonsillectomy in short term follow up.

Methods: Quasi-experimental (before and after study). Eighty-six children aged 3-13 years (58 boys, 28 girls) with adenotonsillar problems (whether with obstructive or infectious surgical indications) who were admitted for adenotonsillectomy procedure. Parents of children were asked to complete PVHI and PVRQOL questionnaires prior to surgery and 1 month after it.

Results: Reliability of the PVRQOL and PVHI was established by evaluation of Cronbach α value. Cronbach α for PVHI was 0.92 and for PVRQOL it was 0.83. Preoperative values for the PVHI were: mean±SD; 14.39±14.65. Preoperative values for the PVRQOL were: mean±SD; 92.60±10.82. PVHI showed significant improvement after surgery: mean±SD; 2.93±6.98 (P<0.001). Postoperative PVRQOL had a significant improvement: mean±SD; 98.11±5.82 (P<0.001).

Conclusion: Adenotonsillectomy improved PVHI and PVRQOL scores in children with adenotonsillar problems, regardless of obstructive or infectious surgical indications.