Some observations on the localizing significance of ear-dependent positional nystagmus

Seventy-one patients who demonstrated unilateral ear-dependent positional nystagmus and unilateral labyrinthine weakness were studied to test the hypothesis that ear-dependent positional nystagmus almost always occurs on the side of unilateral labyrinthine impairment. Little, if any, correlation was found between these two parameters. The results of this study with regard to the critical question of selecting the correct ear for surgery in patients with incapacitating benign paroxysmal postural vertigo are discussed.