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[Long-term results of gentamycin therapy of Menière's disease]
1Hals-Nasen-Ohrenklinik der Medizinischen Universität zu Lübeck.
Abstract:
During the years 1976 to 1987, 82 patients with Ménière's disease received a tympanoclysis with gentamicin on a daily basis. Dosage was titrated up to the initial symptoms of vestibular or cochlear intoxication. Sixty-four patients filed for a complete follow-up examination; it was possible to interview 15, while three patients were lost. Vertigo was eliminated in 70 (89%) cases. Nine patients (11%) remained disabled, while demonstrating typical paroxysmal positional vertigo in three cases. Speech discrimination improved in 13%, stabilized in 54%, and deteriorated in 33%. Hearing improved significantly better if, preoperatively, there had been low frequency loss rather than a flat audiogram. HALLPIKE's caloric test demonstrated residual vestibular activity in 72 percent. In the author's opinion, tympanoclysis with gentamicin offers a technically simple, riskless, and effective method to rehabilitate patients with disabling Ménière's disease.
Insights
Daily tympanoclysis with gentamicin effectively treated Ménière
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurology
Context:
- Ménière's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder.
- Current treatments aim to manage vertigo and preserve hearing.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of daily tympanoclysis with gentamicin for Ménière's disease.
Summary:
- 82 Ménière's disease patients received daily gentamicin via tympanoclysis.
- 89% of patients achieved vertigo elimination.
- Hearing outcomes varied, with better results in low-frequency hearing loss cases.
Impact:
- Gentamicin tympanoclysis offers a simple, safe, and effective treatment option.
- This method can significantly improve quality of life for patients with disabling Ménière's disease.
