Effects of Radioactive Iodine Ablation Therapy on Voice Quality

Summary Objective The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of radioactive iodine ablation therapy on voice quality of patients diagnosed with well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Methods We enrolled 36 patients who underwent total or subtotal thyroidectomy due to well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Voice recordings from patients were analyzed for acoustic and aerodynamic voice. The Voice Handicap Index-10 was used for subjective analysis. The control group consisted of 36 healthy participants. Results taken before and after therapy were compared statistically. Results There were no differences in the results taken before and after therapy for the radioactive iodine ablation group. The Voice Handicap Index-10 results did not differ between groups before and after therapy. Conclusion Radioactive iodine ablation therapy has no effect on voice quality objectively or subjectively.