Analysis of Residual Symptoms after Treatment in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Using Questionnaire

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) provides rapid and long-lasting relief of symptoms in most patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. However, some patients express nonspecific symptoms such as anxiety or discomfort after treatment, even after the disappearance of nystagmus and vertigo. The purpose of this study was to assess the residual symptoms after CRP in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo using the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) in a questionnaire format. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Controlled, prospective study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: CRP was performed in 135 patients until nystagmus and vertigo disappeared. Patients were asked to complete the questionnaire before and 5 to 7 days after treatment. A control group of 135 normal volunteers was selected and cross-matched according to the age and sex of the patient group. The data were compared for the pre-CRP, post-CRP, and control groups. RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in the DHI scores when comparing the pre- and post-CRP groups ( P = 0.000), although six items showed incomplete improvement. Subsequent comparison of DHI scores between the control group and the post-CRP group still showed a difference in some items so that the improvement was incomplete. CONCLUSION: Even after successful CRPs, Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores indicated that residual subjective symptoms may remain. Thus, additional follow-up and management are important for these patients.