Adaptation and validation of the Lithuanian version of the pediatric Voice Handicap Index

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to develop the Lithuanian version of pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI) and to assess its psychometric characteristics. Methods: The Lithuanian version of pVHI was composed according to standard methodology and included forward and back translations of the original questionnaire, committee review and psychometric testing of the final pVHI version. 88 children between 4 and 12 years of age were investigated. There were two study groups: children who had dysphonia (n=57) and a control group of children without alterations in voice (n=31). The questionnaire was always answered by parents. Results were statistically analyzed to assess the reliability, validity, sensitivity and specificity of the Lithuanian pVHI. Results: High internal consistency of the Lithuanian version of pVHI was found with a good Cronbach’s α (α = 0.940). Test-retest analysis also showed high correlation between two testing (r = 0.976) equally for dysphonic and control groups. The mean overall pVHI score was significantly higher for dysphonic group than for control group: 21,6512,73 and 2,354.06 respectively (p< 0.001). Similar results were found for all subscales of pVHI. The most sensitive and specific limiting value for discrimination between clinical and control groups were established. Conclusion: The Lithuanian version of pVHI is reliable and valid instrument to evaluate the Voice Handicap Index in the pediatric population with easy application for daily clinical practice.