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Long-Term Patient-Reported Outcomes After Surgery for Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome.
Mohammed S Alkhafaji1, Sanskriti Varma, Seth E Pross
1*Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland †Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, San Francisco ‡Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California.
Surgery for superior canal dehiscence syndrome (SCDS) offers durable symptom relief, particularly for auditory issues. Most patients report significant improvement and would recommend SCDS surgery.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Audiology
Background:
- Superior canal dehiscence syndrome (SCDS) is a condition characterized by a defect in the temporal bone overlying the superior semicircular canal.
- SCDS can lead to auditory and vestibular symptoms, significantly impacting quality of life.
- Surgical repair aims to address these symptoms, but long-term patient-reported outcomes require evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term patient-reported outcomes following surgical repair of superior canal dehiscence syndrome.
- To evaluate the durability of symptom improvement and patient satisfaction after SCDS surgery.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adult patients who underwent surgery for SCDS at least one year prior.
- Patient-reported outcomes included changes in 11 SCDS-associated symptoms, psychosocial metrics, and willingness to recommend surgery.
- Ninety-three patients completed the survey, with a mean follow-up of 5.3 years.
Main Results:
- Ninety-five percent of respondents reported improvement in their primary symptoms, with 43% experiencing complete symptom resolution.
- Auditory symptoms such as autophony and pulsatile tinnitus showed the greatest improvement.
- Headaches, imbalance, dizziness, and brain fog demonstrated the least improvement, though overall quality of life, mood, and function improved.
Conclusions:
- Surgical repair of SCDS provides durable, long-term relief for the primary symptoms, especially auditory complaints.
- Nearly all patients would recommend SCDS surgery, indicating high satisfaction and perceived benefit.
- These findings support the efficacy of SCDS surgery and can aid in patient counseling regarding expected outcomes.
