Application of IT technology in the management of voice-speech disorders and phoniatric rehabilitation

Abstract

Introduction. Up to date, various mobile medical apps were proposed, including digital platforms for diagnoses of speech impairment. The review aims to assess the effectiveness of mobile health (m-Health) platforms for patients with speech and voice disorders. Material and methods. We conducted a systematic review of studies published between 2008 and 2021. 234 articles from PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were pre-selected for the review. Only articles related to the use of medical applications for smartphones, tablets, or computer devices studies were included in the analysis. Results. A total of 111 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, and 37 were included in this study. The selected reports cover research on the use of mobile applications for therapy, rehabilitation assistance, and diagnoses. In terms of application, mobile apps have been developed for patients (children and adults) with speech disorders caused by autism, neuro-developmental speech impairment, Parkinson’s disease, aphasia, voice disorders, etc. Conclusions. The analysis showed that the m-Health market offers various mobile applications for persons with speech impairments (as an adjuvant tool for therapy and rehabilitation). Despite the existence of a range of m-Health applications for patients with speech disorders, there is a need for further large-scale studies aimed at studying their effectiveness, safety, and reliability.

Keywords

• speech disorders
• aphasia
• dysarthria
• mobile applications
• telemedicine