Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2026

Using Unidirectional Rotations to Improve Vestibular System Asymmetry in Patients with Vestibular Dysfunction
Published on: August 30, 2019
Contralateral incipient posterior canal benign positional paroxysmal vertigo: complication after Epley maneuver
Annabelle C Leong1, David Golding-Wood
1Department of Otolaryngology, Princess Royal University Hospital, Bromley Hospitals NHS Trust, Orpington, Kent, United Kingdom. ackleong@gmail.com
Background:
Particle repositioning procedures give consistent results for the treatment of benign positional paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV). However, little consideration has been given to the possibilities of bilateral disease.
Objective/Hypothesis:
To report contralateral symptoms and signs suggestive of revealed or incipient BPPV as a complication of Epley maneuver.
Study Design:
A prospective cohort of 198 cases over a period of 11 years.
Results:
Ten (5.0%) developed contralateral symptoms and signs suggestive of revealed or incipient posterior canal BPPV within 2 weeks of treatment.
Conclusion:
This novel observation has not been previously described and may influence the strategy for future management of patients with BPPV. Particle repositioning maneuvers for the previously asymptomatic contralateral ear may need to be considered in a subset of patients with posterior canal BPPV who suffer contralateral symptoms after undergoing treatment for the original ear.
Related Concept Videos
Equilibrium and Balance
The Vestibular System
Major Somatic Sensory Pathways
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction

