Surgical Treatment for Vertigo: Patient Survey of Vertigo, Imbalance, and Time Course for Recovery

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To assess surgical treatment of vertigo by patient ratings of postoperative vertigo, imbalance, and timing of symptom improvement. METHODS: A total of 3637 surgeries for vertigo were performed since 1974. Questionnaires sent to a random sample of patients operated since 1994 were completed by 28 endolymphatic sac shunt (ES), 54 vestibular nerve section (VNS), and 14 labyrinthectomy patients. RESULTS: All groups rated current vertigo characteristics and AAO-HNS disability as improved (all P ≤ 0.001), though “spinning dizziness” remained in some patients in each group. The ES and VNS groups rated all characteristics of imbalance as improved (all P ≤ 0.001), but it remained present in the majority. Vertigo resolved within 2 months in 75%, but some indicated months or even 1 to 2 years before attacks stopped. CONCLUSIONS: Based on patient ratings, surgery improved vertigo in all surgical groups and improved imbalance for ES and VNS groups. Imbalance will likely remain after surgery for vertigo. Patients should be informed that symptoms may not immediately resolve.