Endolymphatic sac surgery: analysis of 100 operations

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Audiology

Background:

• Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear.
• Endolymphatic hydrops is characterized by excess fluid in the inner ear.
• Classical Meniere's disease requires comprehensive audiovestibular and metabolic investigations for diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the surgical outcomes of endolymphatic mastoid shunt operations.
• To evaluate the efficacy of the procedure in managing vertigo, hearing, tinnitus, and disability in patients with Meniere's disease.
• To assess results using both 1972 and 1985 AAO-HNS guidelines.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 100 endolymphatic mastoid shunt operations in 89 patients.
• Patients pre-selected with electrophysiological evidence of endolymphatic hydrops.
• Surgical outcomes assessed using AAO-HNS guidelines (1972 and 1985).

Main Results:

• Vertigo control achieved in 81% of patients overall (88% unilateral, 63% bilateral).
• Hearing improvement in 19%, no change in 55%, worsening in 26%.
• Tinnitus improved in 38%, unchanged in 52%, worsened in 10%. Post-operative disability reduced significantly.

Conclusions:

• Endolymphatic mastoid shunt surgery is effective in controlling vertigo for Meniere's disease patients.
• The procedure offers potential benefits for hearing, tinnitus, and disability, though results vary.
• Careful patient selection and adherence to surgical guidelines are crucial for optimal outcomes.