Nystagmus and Vertigo During Aural Toilet Using Microsuction

Background/Objectives: Aural toilet using microsuction is a common procedure in ENT clinics, and vertigo is a frequent complaint during this procedure. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and incidence of microsuction-induced nystagmus and vertigo based on the appearance of the tympanic membrane (TM). Methods: In 85 patients with various TM appearances, microsuction-induced vertigo and nystagmus were assessed. Results: Microsuction elicited nystagmus in 95% (81 of 85) of patients and vertigo in 36% (31 of 85). The nystagmus direction was towards the ipsilateral ear in a bowing position and towards the contralateral ear in a leaning position. The proportion of patients who complained of rotatory vertigo was significantly higher in those with TM perforation, open cavity mastoidectomy, and adhesive otitis media (74%, 26 of 35) compared to those without TM perforation (10%, 5 of 50) (p < 0.001, X² test). Conclusions: Aural toilet using microsuction commonly induces vertigo due to convection in the lateral semicircular canal endolymph caused by the cooling effect. While microsuction-induced nystagmus was observed in most patients, the incidence of vertigo varied depending on the TM condition. Clinicians should closely monitor patients for vertigo during the procedure, and methods to prevent microsuction-induced vertigo should be explored.