Hearing results and control of vertigo after retrolabyrinthine vestibular nerve section

To determine the effect of retrolabyrinthine vestibular nerve section (RVNS) on hearing, vertigo, and associated symptoms, we reviewed our experience in 48 patients. Of the 48, 39 responded to a questionnaire. Although RVNS appeared to have little effect on hearing in Meniere's patients, 91% of non-Meniere's patients had significant and often delayed postoperative sensorineural hearing loss. Our results for vertigo control compared favorably to previous reports with 96% of Meniere's patients and 69% of non-Meniere's patients reporting improvement. Presently, we more frequently recommend RVNS as the primary procedure for the control of severe vertigo in Meniere's patients. Patients with vertigo from other causes must be carefully selected.