Temporal bone fractures. Vestibular and other related ear sequele

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurology
• Traumatology

Background:

• Vertigo is a frequent, yet often underestimated, symptom following head trauma.
• Mechanisms of vestibular system injury are less understood than auditory system damage.
• Temporal bone fractures are a significant cause of post-traumatic vestibular and auditory dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of vestibular and auditory sequelae in patients with temporal bone fractures.
• To analyze the correlation between radiological findings and clinical outcomes.
• To evaluate the long-term impact of these injuries on hearing and balance.

Main Methods:

• Review and re-examination of 20 patients with temporal bone fractures.
• Analysis of conventional X-ray, computerized tomography (CT), clinical, otoneurological, and audiological findings.
• Follow-up assessments including computerized electro-oculography.

Main Results:

• Radiological evidence of fractures in approximately 65% of patients.
• Half of the patients reported dizziness; positional nystagmus was the most common vestibular finding.
• 75% experienced permanent hearing impairment: 20% due to ossicular chain fractures (conductive), 55% sensorineural hearing loss. Dizziness resolved in all patients, but sensorineural hearing loss often persisted.

Conclusions:

• Temporal bone fractures frequently lead to persistent dizziness and significant hearing loss.
• While vestibular symptoms generally improve, sensorineural hearing loss is a common long-term complication.
• Surgical intervention may be indicated for persistent conductive hearing loss, but sensorineural deficits often remain.