Affiliation:
1. Department of Audiology, Faculty of Health Sciences Ankara Medipol University Ankara Turkey
2. Department of Audiology, Faculty of Health Sciences Hacettepe University Hospitals Ankara Turkey
3. Department of Otorhinolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Hacettepe University Hospitals Ankara Turkey
4. Department of Audiology, Faculty of Health Sciences Lokman Hekim University Ankara Turkey
Abstract
BackgroundOtitis media with effusion (OME) frequently leads to vestibular symptoms in children. However, young children face difficulty expressing their symptoms due to their limited language abilities.MethodsThe balance of study and patient group evaluated with computer dynamic posturography, single‐leg stance test with eyes closed and regular Head Impulse Test. The study group was assessed once again after the insertion of a ventilation tube two months later.ResultsIn the Sensory Organization Test, the scores for conditions 5, 6, and composite equilibrium of the preoperative patient group were notably lower compared with both the control and postoperative patient groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, a significant correlation was found between single‐leg stance test with eyes closed results and conditions 5, 6, and composite equilibrium scores.ConclusionThe impact of OME on the vestibular system is negative. This effect can be objectively assessed using Computer Dynamic Posturography and following tube insertion, there is a notable improvement in vestibular function. Furthermore, the single‐leg stance (SLS) test with eyes closed has shown its reliability in assessing balance disorders, notably in children with OME.Level of Evidence2 Laryngoscope, 134:4126–4133, 2024