Static Subjective Visual Vertical in Healthy Volunteers: The Effects of Different Preset Angle Deviations and...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Ophthalmology
• Vestibular System

Background:

• The subjective visual vertical (SVV) is a key indicator of otolith function.
• Assessing the static SVV provides insights into spatial orientation and balance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of preset angle side and deviation on static SVV measurements.
• To evaluate the test-retest reliability of static SVV in healthy volunteers.
• To describe a robust protocol for static SVV assessment.

Main Methods:

• Static SVV was assessed in 24 healthy volunteers using preset angles of 10, 20, and 30 degrees.
• Test-retest reliability was evaluated in 20 volunteers over a 1-week interval.
• Statistical analysis included the Wilcoxon test and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Main Results:

• Static SVV results were significantly influenced by the side of the preset angle (p ≤ 0.001).
• Preset angle deviation did not significantly affect static SVV outcomes.
• Group-level test-retest results were stable, but individual-level variability was statistically relevant (ICC range: -0.240 to 0.508).

Conclusions:

• The side of the preset angle is a critical factor in static SVV assessment.
• While reliable at a group level, individual static SVV measurements exhibit notable variability.
• A standardized protocol is essential for consistent and robust static SVV evaluation.