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Posterior semicircular canal occlusion for intractable benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Summary
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) can be intractable. Transmastoid posterior semicircular canal occlusion effectively treated BPPV in two patients with hearing loss, preserving other ear functions.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurology
- Vestibular Disorders
Background:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common vestibular disorder.
- Most BPPV cases resolve spontaneously or with repositioning maneuvers.
- Intractable BPPV can cause severe, prolonged symptoms impacting quality of life.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with intractable BPPV and profound sensorineural hearing loss.
- The patients underwent transmastoid posterior semicircular canal occlusion.
- Postoperative assessment included electronystagmography to evaluate vestibular function.
Findings:
- Both patients experienced complete relief from BPPV symptoms after the procedure.
- Electronystagmography confirmed preserved function of the lateral semicircular canal.
- The transmastoid approach was technically successful in occluding the posterior semicircular canal.
Implications:
- Transmastoid posterior semicircular canal occlusion offers a potential treatment for intractable BPPV.
- This procedure may be a simpler and safer alternative to singular neurectomy.
- Further investigation is warranted for treating BPPV in normal-hearing ears.