Objective: To establish normative values for voice-related quality of life across a broad pediatric otolaryngology population using the Pediatric Voice Outcome Survey (PVOS).
Design: Longitudinal study.
Setting: Multiphysician outpatient pediatric otolaryngology practice.
Methods: The PVOS was completed by 385 parents of children and adolescents aged 2 to 18 years. Of the 385 parents, 75 were readministered the instrument 2 weeks after no intervention had been provided. Data were collected regarding the patients' age, main diagnosis, and operative intervention.
Results: The PVOS demonstrated robust internal consistency with an overall Cronbach alpha value of.70. Test-retest reliability demonstrated a weighted kappa value of 0.89 (95% confidence interval, 0.84-0.95) The mean +/- SD converted score (based on a 0-100 scale) for the overall population was 80.5 +/- 19.9. Converted PVOS scores are provided for each subpopulation according to main diagnosis. The PVOS scores varied significantly according to age (P<.05) and preoperative and postoperative status following adenoidectomy (P<.05).
Conclusion: The PVOS represents a valid and reliable instrument to measure voice-related quality of life in a broad pediatric otolaryngology population.