The effect of ultrasound on Meniere's disease
Abstract:
Among 22 patients with Meniere's disease treated with ultrasonic irradiation, only eight showed extinguished caloric reaction. Long-term therapeutic effect had been obtained in all the patients, Histological examination of the lateral semicircular canal and the crista ampullaris from five patients previously treated with ultrasound for Meniere's disease showed the following changes: (1) In the subepithelial tissue in crista ampullairs no signs of degeneration were found. The nerve fibres were normal. (2) The sensory cells with nerve-endings and supporting cells also appeared normal. (3) The secretory cells showed pronounced cellular vacuolization and increased intercellular space. (4) The lateral semicircular canal was completely obliterated with destruction of the membranous canal. It is concluded that the therapeutic effect may be due to the creation of an endolymphatic fistula.
Insights
Ultrasonic irradiation effectively treated Meniere
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear.
- Current treatments aim to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic effects and histological changes following ultrasonic irradiation in Meniere's disease patients.
- To explore the mechanism behind the long-term therapeutic success.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasound treatment was administered to 22 Meniere's disease patients.
- Caloric testing was performed to assess vestibular function.
- Histological examination of the lateral semicircular canal and crista ampullaris was conducted on five patients.
Main Results:
- Long-term therapeutic effects were observed in all 22 patients.
- Eight patients showed an extinguished caloric reaction post-treatment.
- Histology revealed secretory cell vacuolization and complete obliteration of the lateral semicircular canal.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonic irradiation demonstrates long-term efficacy in Meniere's disease.
- The therapeutic mechanism may involve the creation of an endolymphatic fistula.
- Histological findings suggest significant structural changes in the inner ear.
