Posterior Semicircular Canal Occlusion for Intractable Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Abstract

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is most often a self-limited disorder arising from the posterior semicircular canal of the undermost ear in the Hallpike position. Some individuals with this disorder have severe and protracted symptoms requiring more than expectant therapy. We describe two patients with intractable BPPV and profound sensorineural hearing loss in the affected ear treated by transmastoid posterior semicircular canal occlusion. Postoperatively, both were relieved of their BPPV and demonstrated preserved lateral semicircular canal function as measured by electronystagmography. We feel this new procedure provides a simpler and possibly safer alternative to singular neurectomy and should be given future consideration in the treatment of intractable BPPV in a normal-hearing ear.