Cost-effective evaluation of the vestibular patient

There is in existence a large array of sophisticated equipment to assess patients with complaints of dizziness and imbalance. Many vestibular tests are expensive to administer. In an era of evidence-based medicine and economic austerity, the appropriate utilization of such tests is of paramount importance. This review examines the clinical value together with costs involved in performing the various components of the vestibular assessment battery.

Vestibular testing is expensive. To date, publications to support the use of specialist tests for the confident diagnosis of specific vestibular pathologies are severely lacking. In fact, over the last 12 months, the literature illustrates a reduction in the enthusiasm for some tests that were popularized over recent decades.

Tests of vestibular function are expensive and their ability to diagnose specific vestibular pathologies is lacking. However, there are some tests that, when used in specific circumstances, may be very helpful in the diagnosis and management of patients with these complaints.