Identification, Evaluation, Therapy, and Follow-Up for Children with Vocal Nodules in a Public School Setting

Abstract

This paper describes procedures used by speech and otorhinolaryngology specialists in the Independent School District of Carrollton and Farmers Branch, Texas, to identify, evaluate, treat, and follow up children with voice disorders and presents some initial findings resulting from the use of these procedures. In the identification process, 34 children were found to have vocal nodules, of which 31 children received treatment and underwent appropriate follow-up. After two months of voice therapy, 21 (68%) of the children exhibited reduced nodule size and seven (23%) exhibited normal larynges. Following six months of therapy, 26 (84%) children exhibited reduced nodule size, and 20 (65%) had normal larynges.