Classification of glottic insufficiency and tension asymmetry using a multilayer perceptron

Objective: Laryngeal function can be evaluated from multiple perspectives, including aerodynamic input, acoustic output, and mucosal wave vibratory characteristics. To determine the classifying power of each of these, we used a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network (ANN) to classify data as normal, glottic insufficiency, or tension asymmetry. Study design: Case series analyzing data obtained from excised larynges simulating different conditions. Methods: Aerodynamic, acoustic, and videokymographic data were collected from excised canine larynges simulating normal, glottic insufficiency, and tension asymmetry. Classification of samples was performed using a multilayer perceptron ANN. Results: A classification accuracy of 84% was achieved when including all parameters. Classification accuracy dropped below 75% when using only aerodynamic or acoustic parameters and below 65% when using only videokymographic parameters. Conclusions: Samples were classified with the greatest accuracy when using a wide range of parameters. Decreased classification accuracies for individual groups of parameters demonstrate the importance of a comprehensive voice assessment when evaluating dysphonia. Laryngoscope, 2012