Validation of the European Spanish Version of the Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale (VTDS).

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to validate the European Spanish version of the Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale (VTDS). STUDY DESIGN: A nonrandomized, cross-sectional prospective study was conducted, including a control group. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A questionnaire comprising the VTD and VHI-10 scales was administered to 144 dysphonic patients and 88 healthy individuals. The Spanish adaptation of the VTD scale by Santi et al (2020)32 was utilized. Participants were guided by two researchers who addressed their inquiries. A subset of 20 patients participated a second time to evaluate temporal stability. RESULTS: Temporal reliability (ICC), absolute reliability (SDC), and internal consistency demonstrated satisfactory values for both the frequency and severity dimensions, as well as the total score. No floor or ceiling effects were observed. The validity evidence was adequate for both construct and criterion validity. The cutoff point for the three scores was determined using ROC analysis, facilitating the estimation of the threshold above which dysphonia may be suspected. CONCLUSIONS: The European Spanish version of the VTDS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing voice disorders in Spanish patients.