Factors Associated With Recurrence in Patients With Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Following Canal Repositioning Therapy

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is effectively managed with canal repositioning therapy; however, recurrence is common. Identifying clinical factors associated with recurrence may help improve follow-up and patient counselling. This study aimed to determine the recurrence of BPPV following canal repositioning therapy and to evaluate the demographic and clinical factors associated with recurrence.

This prospective observational study included 100 patients with clinically diagnosed BPPV who underwent canal repositioning therapy in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, clinical presentation, affected side, and involved semicircular canal were recorded for all patients. Patients were followed up for recurrence, and potential predictors were evaluated using univariate logistic regression analysis.

Recurrence occurred in 27 (27.0%) patients, whereas 73 (73.0%) remained recurrence-free during follow-up. Posterior canal involvement was predominant in both groups. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with recurrence in univariate analysis, whereas sex, affected side, and involved semicircular canal were not significantly associated with recurrence. Among patients who developed recurrence, 12 (44.4%) experienced recurrence within one month, 10 (37.0%) between one and three months, and 5 (18.5%) between three and six months.

Recurrence following canal repositioning therapy was significantly associated with hypertension and diabetes mellitus in the present study. Recognition of these factors may support individualized counselling and closer follow-up of patients at greater risk of recurrence.