Subjective Visual Vertical in Various Vestibular Disorders by Using a Simple Bucket Test.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Ophthalmology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Subjective Visual Vertical (S.V.V.) perception relies on visual, vestibular, and somatosensory inputs.
• Otolith dysfunction significantly alters the judgment of verticality.
• Accurate S.V.V. assessment is crucial for diagnosing vestibular disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a straightforward method for assessing S.V.V.
• To analyze S.V.V. changes in patients with diverse vestibular disorders.
• To evaluate the clinical utility of a novel S.V.V. assessment device.

Main Methods:

• One hundred subjects with vestibular disorders underwent neurotological evaluation.
• Subjective Visual Vertical was measured using a specially designed 'bucket' device.
• Deviation from the vertical was quantified in degrees; normal is 0° ± 2°.

Main Results:

• 83% of vestibular neuritis patients and 71% of BPPV patients exhibited abnormal S.V.V.
• 55% of Meniere's disease patients showed abnormal S.V.V.
• The 'bucket' device proved simple, cost-effective, and easy to implement in clinical practice.

Conclusions:

• S.V.V. assessment using the modified 'bucket' is a reliable screening tool for vestibular dysfunction.
• This method offers prognostic value for recovery after vestibular damage.
• The device facilitates practical, daily clinical application for S.V.V. testing.