Vascular compression syndrome of the vestibular nerve: a critical analysis

The rationale, indications, and surgical results of microvascular decompression for the treatment of vertigo are reviewed, and a critical analysis is made. The syndrome of disabling positional vertigo is discussed. It is concluded that (1) vascular compressive vestibular neuropathy may exist, (2) the current published diagnostic criteria for this disorder are insufficient to firmly establish the diagnosis, and (3) further work delineating this syndrome should be undertaken.