Singing Voice Handicap Index Across Research and Clinical Context: A Systematic Review.

Objective: This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the applications of the Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI) in different clinical and scientific contexts.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) guidelines, covering articles published between 2018 and June 2024 in the Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, and SciELO Brasil databases. Eligibility criteria included clinical trials and observational and statistical studies. Articles in Brazilian and European Portuguese, as well as English, were considered. Study selection was performed by three researchers: two independently conducted the initial screening, while the third resolved conflicts and made final decisions. The risk of bias and reliability of the evidence were assessed using the RoB 2.0 and GRADE tools to ensure the inclusion of methodologically robust studies.

Results: A total of 111 studies were gathered, and after all phases of selection, 26 were included. The findings revealed a wide range of SVHI applications in various clinical interventions, highlighting its adaptability to different methodological approaches.

Level of evidence: The evidence analysis showed that 92.31% of the studies had a low risk of bias, reinforcing the reliability of the evidence included in the review.

Conclusion: The diverse applicability of the SVHI as a vocal assessment instrument highlights its flexibility and adaptability across different study types and interventions. Moreover, this protocol has proven effective in standardizing and comparing results. This study reinforces the SVHI as an essential tool in both clinical and academic settings.