Involvement of the Anterior Semicircular Canal in Posttraumatic Benign Paroxysmal Positioning Vertigo

High score of dizziness-handicap-inventory (DHI) in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain makes a chronic vestibular disorder probable

OBJECTIVES

In patients with a vestibular disorder a high score of dizziness-handicap-inventory (DHI) is common. Patients with chronic lithiasis of multiple canals benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (mc-BPPV) can have incapacitating symptoms, e.g. headache, neck pain, musculoskeletal pain, and cognitive dysfunction. Patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain with few objective findings at an ordinary examination of the musculoskeletal system together with unsuccessful interventions can either receive a diagnosis of a biopsychosocial disorder or a diagnosis connected to the dominant symptom. The aim of this investigation is to examine if the DHI- and the DHI subscale scores are abnormal in 49 patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain disorders. In addition, explore the possibility of a chronic mc-BPPV diagnosis.

METHODS

Consecutive prospective observational cohort study at five different physiotherapy clinics. A personal interview using a structured symptom questionnaire consisting of 15 items. Modified Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) including the Physical-, Catastrophic- and Emotional impact DHI subscale scores suggested by the Mayo Clinic was applied.

RESULTS

Eighty-four percent of the 49 patients have a pathological DHI-score and a potential underlying undiagnosed vestibular disorder. Very few patients have scores at the catastrophic subscale. A correlation is found between the number of symptoms of the structured scheme and the DHI-score. Results from all five physiotherapy clinics were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a high number of symptoms and a high DHI-score can have a potential underlying treatable balance disorder like mc-BPPV. Increased awareness and treatment of mc-BPPV may reduce suffering and continuous medication in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Regional Ethical Committee (No IRB 00001870).

Post-concussive Dizziness: A Review and Clinical Approach to the Patient

Dizziness is a frequent complaint after head trauma. Among patients who suffer a concussion (mild traumatic brain injury or mTBI), dizziness is second only to headache in symptom frequency. The differential diagnosis of post-concussive dizziness (PCD) can be divided into non-vestibular, central vestibular and peripheral vestibular causes with growing recognition that patients frequently exhibit both central and peripheral findings on vestibular testing. Symptoms that traditionally have been ascribed to central vestibular dysfunction may be due to peripheral dysfunction. Further, our ability to test peripheral vestibular function has improved and has allowed us to identify peripheral disorders that in the past would have remained unnoticed. The importance of the identification of the peripheral component in PCD lies in our ability to remedy the peripheral vestibular component to a much greater extent than the central component. Unfortunately, many patients are not adequately evaluated for vestibular disorders until long after the onset of their symptoms. Among the diagnoses seen as causes for PCD are (1) Central vestibular disorders, (2) Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), (3) Labyrinthine dehiscence/perilymph fistula syndrome, (4) labyrinthine concussion, (5) secondary endolymphatic hydrops, (6) Temporal bone fracture, and (7) Malingering (particularly when litigation is pending). These diagnoses are not mutually exclusive and PCD patients frequently exhibit a combination of these disorders. A review of the literature and a general approach to the patient with post-concussive dizziness will be detailed as well as a review of the above-mentioned diagnostic categories.

The Risk of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo After Head Trauma

OBJECTIVES

Head trauma may cause dislodgement of otoconia and development of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The risk of developing BPPV is expected to be highest shortly after the trauma, then decrease and approach the risk seen in the general population. The aim of this study was to estimate the risk-time curve of BPPV development after head trauma.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

METHODS

Patients with minimal, mild, or moderate head trauma treated at the Department of Neurosurgery or the Department of Orthopedic Emergency at Oslo University Hospital, were interviewed and examined for BPPV using the Dix-Hallpike and supine roll maneuvers. BPPV was diagnosed according to the International diagnostic criteria of the Bárány Society. Telephone interviews were conducted at 2, 6, and 12 weeks after the first examination.

RESULTS

Out of 117 patients, 21% developed traumatic BPPV within 3 months after the trauma. The corresponding numbers were 12% with minimal trauma, 24% with mild, and 40% with moderate trauma. The difference in prevalence between the groups was significant (P = .018). During the first 4 weeks after the trauma, it was observed 20, 3, 0, and 1 BPPV onsets, respectively. No BPPV cases were seen for the remainder of the 3-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The risk of developing BPPV after minimal-to-moderate head trauma is considerable and related to trauma severity. Most cases occur within few days after the trauma, but any BPPV occurring within the first 2 weeks after head trauma are likely due to the traumatic event.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Rare Disorders of the Vestibular Labyrinth: of Zebras, Chameleons and Wolves in Sheep's Clothing

The differential diagnosis of vertigo syndromes is a challenging issue, as many - and in particular - rare disorders of the vestibular labyrinth can hide behind the very common symptoms of "vertigo" and "dizziness". The following article presents an overview of those rare disorders of the balance organ that are of special interest for the otorhinolaryngologist dealing with vertigo disorders. For a better orientation, these disorders are categorized as acute (AVS), episodic (EVS) and chronic vestibular syndromes (CVS) according to their clinical presentation. The main focus lies on EVS sorted by their duration and the presence/absence of triggering factors (seconds, no triggers: vestibular paroxysmia, Tumarkin attacks; seconds, sound and pressure induced: "third window" syndromes; seconds to minutes, positional: rare variants and differential diagnoses of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo; hours to days, spontaneous: intralabyrinthine schwannomas, endolymphatic sac tumors, autoimmune disorders of the inner ear). Furthermore, rare causes of AVS (inferior vestibular neuritis, otolith organ specific dysfunction, vascular labyrinthine disorders, acute bilateral vestibulopathy) and CVS (chronic bilateral vestibulopathy) are covered. In each case, special emphasis is laid on the decisive diagnostic test for the identification of the rare disease and "red flags" for potentially dangerous disorders (e. g. labyrinthine infarction/hemorrhage). Thus, this chapter may serve as a clinical companion for the otorhinolaryngologist aiding in the efficient diagnosis and treatment of rare disorders of the vestibular labyrinth.

Complex nystagmus in traumatic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: A case study on the critical value of knowing semicircular canal excitation and inhibition patterns

A 73-year-old female presented to the emergency department with chief complaint of dizziness after sustaining a fall one month prior to dizziness onset. Although careful examination of eye movement patterns during positional testing was attempted at varying stages of her inpatient admission, her complex nystagmus patterns as a result of traumatic benign paroxysmal vertigo were difficult to manage. In particular, the nystagmus pattern from this case suggests the BPPV was variable and affecting either 1) left posterior semicircular canal (pSCC) exclusively 2) left pSCC and right anterior semicircular canal, 3) left and right pSCC canal. This case illustrates the importance of two critical details; positional testing should include observing nystagmus with fixation removed and an experienced clinician should be involved as early as possible.

Clinical Characteristics of Patients With Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Diagnosed Based on the Diagnostic Criteria of the Bárány Society

Objectives: To analyze the clinical characteristics of patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) diagnosed based on the diagnostic criteria of Bárány Society, verify the clinical application value of the diagnostic criteria, and further explore the clinical problems associated with the diagnosis of possible BPPV.

Methods: A total of 481 patients with BPPV who were admitted from March 2016 to February 2019 were included. All patients were diagnosed by the Dix-Hallpike, straight head hanging and supine roll tests, the nystagmus was recorded using videonystagmography. For patients with possible BPPV (uncertain diagnosis), particle repositioning therapy and follow-up diagnosis were used to further clarify diagnosis.

Results: Based on Bárány Society's diagnostic criteria for BPPV, the distribution characteristics of different BPPV types were as follows: 159 (33.1%) patients had posterior canal BPPV-canalolithiasis (PC-BPPV-ca), 70 (14.6%) patients had horizontal canal BPPV-ca (HC-BPPV-ca), 55 (11.4%) patients had spontaneously resolved-probable-BPPV (Pro-BPPV), and 53 (11.0%) patients had HC-BPPV-cupulolithiasis (HC-BPPV-cu). In emerging and controversial BPPV, 51 (10.6%) patients had multiple canal BPPV (MC-BPPV), 30 (6.2%) patients had PC-BPPV-cu, and 19 (4.0%) patients had anterior canal BPPV-ca (AC-BPPV-ca), 44 (9.1%) patients had possible-BPPV (Pos-BPPV). Among the 44 patients with Pos-BPPV, 23 patients showed dizziness/vertigo without nystagmus during the initial positional test, five patients were possible MC-BPPV, four patients had persistent geotropic positional nystagmus lasting > 1 min when lying on both sides, and were considered to have Pos-HC-BPPV, four patients showed apogeotropic nystagmus when lying on one side, and were considered to have possible short-arm HC-BPPV, four patients showed geotropic nystagmus when lying on one side, and were considered to have Pos-HC-BPPV, three patients had down-beating nystagmus, lasing > 1 min, were considered to have Pos-AC-BPPV-cu. One patient showed transient apogeotropic positional nystagmus on both sides during the supine roll test, and was diagnosed with possible anterior arm HC-BPPV.

Conclusions: PC-BPPV-ca is the most common among patients with BPPV, followed by HC-BPPV-ca. In emerging and controversial BPPV, MC-BPPV, and Pos-BPPV were more common. For the diagnosis of Pos-BPPV, a combination of the history of typical BPPV, particle repositioning therapy and follow-up outcome is helpful to clarify the diagnosis.

Can a Chronic BPPV With a History of Trauma be the Trigger of Symptoms in Vestibular Migraine, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), and Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD)? A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

In patients with chronic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), i.e., chronic vestibular multicanalicular canalithiasis (CVMCC), abnormal signals are transmitted from diseased labyrinths via the healthy vestibular nuclei complex to their end organs. The vestibulo-thalamo-cortical reflex as proposed in vestibular migraine is just one of these reflexes. In a group of patients diagnosed with CVMCC otolith repositioning maneuvers specific for each semicircular canal (SCC) ameliorated pain and other symptoms in 90%. Increased awareness of CVMCC may reduce suffering and continuous medication.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate if CVMCC can be the trigger of symptoms in vestibular migraine, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), and whiplash associated disorders (WAD).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective consecutive observational cohort study.

SETTING

Ambulatory at a private Otoneurology Centre.

PATIENTS

One hundred sixty-three patients with CVMCC and a history of trauma.

INTERVENTION

Based on the symptoms (structured symptom questionnaire), the patients are post hoc sub grouped according to the criteria of the different diagnoses.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Frequency of patients with CVMCC who fulfill the criteria of the different diagnoses.

RESULTS

98% of all patients with CVMCC fulfill the Barany Society criteria of a probable vestibular migraine; 17% fulfill the International Classification of Headache Disorders defined vestibular migraine criteria; 63% fulfill the Fukuda criteria of ME/CFS; 100% of the patients with WAD suffer from CVMCC.

CONCLUSION

This survey supports the hypothesis that CVMCC can be the trigger of symptoms in vestibular migraine, ME/CFS, and WAD. The actual diagnosis the patient receives is often in accordance with the patient's dominant symptom.

Management of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in an Adult With Severe Osteogenesis Imperfecta

The purpose of this case report was to describe the evaluation and management of atypical benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) in an adult with severe osteogenesis imperfecta. A 29-year-old male was referred to a physical therapist with extensive experience in vestibular rehabilitation who provided horizontal canal BPPV treatment with a canalith repositioning maneuver over two treatment sessions. The individual's symptoms had reduced by 65% and his nystagmus during the roll test was reduced. Extreme care is needed to safely reposition individuals living with severe osteogenesis imperfecta, but the repositioning can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Laryngoscope, 130:2241-2244, 2020.

Diagnosis strategy and Yacovino maneuver for anterior canal-benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the diagnosis strategy of anterior canal-benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (AC-BPPV) and the therapeutic effects of the Yacovino maneuver.

METHODS

The clinical data of 40 AC-BPPV patients were collected. The nystagmus characteristics induced by the Dix-Hallpike (D-H) and straight head-hanging (SHH) tests, the diagnostic methods used, and the effectiveness of the Yacovino maneuver for the treatment of AC-BPPV were all retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 40 cases analyzed, 19 patients had simple AC-BPPV, 11 patients had AC-posterior canal BPPV, and 10 patients had AC-horizontal canal BPPV. D-H and SHH tests showed down-beating nystagmus in 26 and 33 patients, respectively, and showed down-beating and torsional nystagmus in 14 and 7 patients, respectively. AC-BPPV was diagnosed in 15 patients based on the presence of typical BPPV in other canals, in 9 patients based on typical disease history and the results of position tests, in 6 patients based on effectiveness of the treatment with the Yacovino maneuver, in 4 patients based on the treatment effectiveness and the presence of typical BPPV in other canals, in 3 patients based on the treatment effectiveness and the follow-up outcome, in 2 patients based on the typical BPPV in other canals and occurrence of canal conversion, and in 1 patient based on the treatment effectiveness and occurrence of canal conversion. Thirteen patients with canalolithiasis and four patients with cupulolithiasis were cured after the initial Yacovino maneuver treatment. Twenty-one patients with canalolithiasis and seven patients with cupulolithiasis were cured following 1 week of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness of the Yacovino maneuver, the follow-up outcome, the presence of typical BPPV in other canals, and the occurrence of canal conversions contribute to AC-BPPV diagnosis. The Yacovino maneuver was found to be more effective in AC-BPPV patients with canalolithiasis than in those with cupulolithiasis.

The aVOR App Increases Medical Students' Competence in Treating Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

HYPOTHESIS

Implementation of the "aVOR app" into teaching courses at medical school enhances students' satisfaction with the course and increases their competence in treating benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

BACKGROUND

BPPV is often underdiagnosed and left untreated. One problem in teaching the management of BPPV to health care professionals is the lack of simulation-based training tools. The aVOR app (aVOR = angular vestibulo-ocular reflex) works as a bionic labyrinth that simulates the activation of the semicircular canals by rotational acceleration and the resulting vestibular evoked eye movements.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized, controlled study, medical students at a university hospital were randomly assigned to two kinds of small instructional groups. Students of the control group (n = 67) practiced diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers for BPPV on each other, while the participants of the study group (n = 46) used the aVOR app as a virtual patient in addition. At the end of the term, students were asked to arrange the steps of the canalith repositioning procedure in the correct order in a written test.

RESULTS

Quality of the teaching media was rated significantly better in the aVOR group (two-sided Mann-Whitney test: P < 0.00001). Significantly more students of the aVOR group than the control group arranged the steps of the canalith repositioning procedure correctly in the final exam (56.3% versus 25.9%, Fisher's exact test: P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Implementation of the aVOR app as a virtual patient into small instructional courses is well adopted by medical students and increases their competence in treating BPPV.

Treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. A clinical review

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most frequent episodic vestibular disorder. It is due to otolith rests that are free into the canals or attached to the cupulas. Well over 90% of patients can be successfully treated with manoeuvres that move the particles back to the utriculus. Among the great variety of procedures that have been described, the manoeuvres that are supported by evidenced-based studies or extensive series are commented in this review. Some topics regarding BPPV treatment, such as controlling the accuracy of the procedures or the utility of post-manoeuvre restrictions are also discussed.

Post-traumatic balance disorder

The causes of balance disorder are many and various, and the subjective syndrome of cranial trauma patients is diagnosed by elimination. Progress in otoneurologic functional exploration and brain imaging, however, now generally allow this functional complaint to be given an objective basis. In recent years, new diagnoses have improved recognition of such pathologies in the appraisal of corporal injury for compensation purposes. The present article seeks to detail etiology and, by a review of the literature, to determine factors liable to influence management and appraisal in particular.

Risk factors for the recurrence of post-semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo after canalith repositioning

This retrospective study was conducted to determine the relationship between variable factors and the recurrence rate of post-semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (PSC-BPPV) after canalith repositioning procedure (CRP). Patients with PSC-BPPV were diagnosed by history and the presence of a positive Dix-Hallpike maneuver between 2008 and 2010. In total, 243 patients (47 males and 196 females, average age = 57.5 -years) treated with Epley's maneuver or canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) were included in the study. The demographic factors studied were age, sex, sleep disorders, inner ear diseases, head trauma history, and cardiovascular diseases. Multivariate statistics using SPSS version 15, Pearson's Chi-squared test (χ2), Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression model were used for the analysis. The success rate of vertigo control after the initial CRP was 83.1 %. Pearson's χ2 test results showed that females and participants with sleep disorders exhibited a significant difference in the recurrence of vertigo after the initial CRP. In addition, the Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test survival analysis revealed that the recurrence was associated with females and participants with sleep disorders and inner ear diseases.However, Cox proportional hazards regression showed no differences in recurrences associated with old age, sex, sleep disorders, inner ear diseases, head trauma, and cardiovascular diseases. Epley's maneuver or CRP is an effective, safe, and simple treatment for BPPV. Females and participants with sleep disorders and inner ear diseases are likely associated with the recurrence of BPPV after CRP.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Secondary to Mild Head Trauma

Objectives:

We studied the clinical characteristics, nystagmographic findings, and treatment outcome of a group of patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) secondary to mild head trauma and compared them with a group of patients with idiopathic BPPV.

Methods:

The medical records of 33 patients with BPPV associated with mild head trauma were reviewed. Data of a complete otolaryngological, audiological, neurotologic, and imaging evaluation were available for all patients. Three hundred and twenty patients with idiopathic BPPV were used as a control group.

Results:

The patients with BPPV secondary to mild head trauma presented the following features, in which they differed from the patients with idiopathic BPPV: (1) lower mean age, with more intense symptoms; (2) increased rate of horizontal and anterior semicircular canal involvement and frequent multiple canal and bilateral involvement; (3) greater incidence of canal paresis and presence of spontaneous nystagmus; (4) poorer treatment results, attributed mainly to coexisting canal paresis in many patients, and higher rate of recurrence.

Conclusions:

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo associated with mild head trauma differs from idiopathic BPPV in terms of several epidemiological and clinical features; it responds less effectively to treatment and is prone to recurrence.

Treatment of chronic canalithiasis can be beneficial for patients with vertigo/dizziness and chronic musculoskeletal pain, including whiplash related pain

Background and aim Chronic musculoskeletal pain, e.g. whiplash associated disorders (WAD), fibromyalgia and myalgia, causes significant burden on both the individual and on society as a whole. In a previous study, the authors concluded that there is a likely connection between chronic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)/canalithiasis and headache, neck pain, generalized pain, fatigue, cognitive dysfunctions as well as tinnitus. The balance dysfunction in BPPV/canalithiasis is dynamic and not static. This leads to a perpetual postural mismatch. The vicious cycle of a disturbed equilibrium control system may be the driving force behind the vicious cycle of pain. The aim of this study is to investigate if otolith-repositioning manoeuvres in patients with chronic BPPV/canalithiasis can be beneficial. Methods During a period of about two years a prospective observational study on patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain referred for physiotherapy was performed. Those with a Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) inquiry score above 20 underwent further investigations to diagnose chronic BPPV/canalithiasis. Diagnostic criteria: (A) The diagnosis of BPPV/canalithiasis was confirmed with the following: (1) specific history of vertigo or dizziness provoked by acceleration/deceleration, AND (2) nystagmus and symptoms during at least one of the test positions; (B) the disorder had persisted for at least one year. Specific otolith repositioning manoeuvre for each semi-circular canal (SCC) was performed. Symptom questionnaire ("yes" or "no" answers during a personal interview) and a follow-up questionnaire were used. Results The responders of the follow-up questionnaire constituted the study group. Thirty-nine patients responded (i.e. 87%) (31 females, 8 males) with a median age of 44 years (17-65). The median duration of the disease was5 years. Seventy-nine percent had ahistory ofhead or neck trauma. The DHI median score was 48 points (score >60 indicates a risk of fall). The video-oculography confirmed BPPV/canalithiasis in more than one semi-circular canal in all patients. In the present study the frequency of affected anterior semi-circular canal (SSC) was at a minimum of 26% and could be as high as 65%. Ninety-five percent suffered from headache, 92% from neck pain, 54% had generalized pain, and 56% had temporo-mandibular joint region pain. Fatigue (97%), aggravation by physical exertion (87%), decreased ability to concentrate (85%) aswellas visual disturbances (85%) were the most frequently reported symptoms, and 49% suffered from tinnitus. The median number of otolith repositioning manoeuvres done was six (2-29). Median time span between finishing otolith repositioning manoeuvres and answering the questionnaire was 7 months. Effects of treatment and conclusion The present study has shown that repositioning of otoliths in the SCCs in nearly all patients with chronic BPPV/canalithiasis ameliorated pain and other symptoms. The correlation between vertigo/dizziness and the majority of symptoms was significant. Therefore, there is strong evidence to suggest that there is a connection between chronic BPPV/canalithiasis and chronic pain as well as the above-mentioned symptoms. Implications Patients with unexplained pain conditions should be evaluated withthe Dizziness Handicap Inventory-questionnaire, which can identify treatable balance disorders.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Anterior-Canal Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: A Systematic Review

Background and Purpose

In contrast to the posterior- and horizontal-canal variants, data on the frequency and therapeutic management of anterior-canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (AC-BPPV) are sparse. To synthesize the existing body of evidence into a systematic review regarding the incidence and treatment of AC-BPPV.

Methods

Systematic search of medical databases employing predefined criteria, using the term "anterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo."

Results

The electronic search retrieved 178 unique citations, 31 of which were considered eligible for further analysis. Analysis of the collected data revealed an estimated occurrence of AC-BPPV among benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients of 3% (range 1-17.1%). No controlled therapeutic trials could be identified, and so the analysis was focused on uncontrolled case series. Treatment was categorized into three groups: Epley maneuver, Yacovino maneuver, and specific, nonstandard maneuvers described in individual articles. All three categories demonstrated success rates of over 75%, and the overall sample-size-weighted mean was 85.6%.

Conclusions

The present analysis demonstrated that AC-BPPV comprises about 3% of all BPPV cases. It can be treated safely using the Epley, Yacovino, and other maneuvers with rates of symptom resolution lying in the range of that reported for the other, more frequent canal variants. Multicenter controlled trials are needed in order to develop evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of AC-BPPV.

Canal conversion between anterior and posterior semicircular canal in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the characteristics of canal conversion between the anterior and posterior semicircular canals in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Secondary referral center.

PATIENTS

A total of 709 patients who were treated with the Epley maneuver for BPPV of the anterior or posterior semicircular canal.

INTERVENTIONS

Vestibular examinations with videonystagmography and the canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) to treat BPPV.

RESULTS

Canal conversion between the anterior and posterior semicircular canals was observed in 18 (2.9%) patients who underwent CRP. In 13 (2.3%) of 564 patients initially diagnosed with posterior canal BPPV (PC-BPPV), switch to anterior canal BPPV (AC-BPPV) was observed at a follow-up visit. In 5 (12.1%) of 41 patients who presented with AC-BPPV, canal switch to PC-BPPV occurred more frequently (p = 0.005). The average number of CRPs before nystagmus resolution was 3.6 in conversion cases versus 1.6 in the nonconversion group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Canal conversion between the anterior and posterior semicircular canals can occur during treatment. The possibility of canal conversions should be considered for appropriate management of BPPV of the vertical semicircular canals.

Surgery of the ear and the lateral skull base: pitfalls and complications

Surgery of the ear and the lateral skull base is a fascinating, yet challenging field in otorhinolaryngology. A thorough knowledge of the associated complications and pitfalls is indispensable for the surgeon, not only to provide the best possible care to his patients, but also to further improve his surgical skills. Following a summary about general aspects in pre-, intra-and postoperative care of patients with disorders of the ear/lateral skull base, this article covers the most common pitfalls and complications in stapes surgery, cochlear implantation and surgery of vestibular schwannomas and jugulotympanal paragangliomas. Based on these exemplary procedures, basic "dos and don'ts" of skull base surgery are explained, which the reader can easily transfer to other disorders. Special emphasis is laid on functional aspects, such as hearing, balance and facial nerve function. Furthermore, the topics of infection, bleeding, skull base defects, quality of life and indication for revision surgery are discussed. An open communication about complications and pitfalls in ear/lateral skull base surgery among surgeons is a prerequisite for the further advancement of this fascinating field in ENT surgery. This article is meant to be a contribution to this process.

Pain and other symptoms in patients with chronic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

Background and aim A diagnosis of chronic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is based on brief attacks of rotatory vertigo and concomitant nystagmus elicited by rapid changes in head position relative to gravity. However, the clinical course of BPPV may vary considerably from a self-limiting to a persisting and/or recurrent disabling problem. The authors' experience is that the most common complaints of patients with chronic BPPV are nautical vertigo or dizziness with other symptoms including neck pain, headache, widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and visual disturbances. Trauma is believed to be the major cause of BPPV in individuals younger than fifty years. Chronic BPPV is associated with high morbidity. Since these patients often suffer from pain and do not have rotatory vertigo, their symptoms are often attributed to other conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate possible associations between these symptoms and chronic BPPV. Methods During 2010 a consecutive prospective cohort observational study was performed. Diagnostic criteria: (A) BPPV diagnosis confirmed by the following: (1) a specific history of vertigo/dizziness evoked by acceleration/deceleration, (2) nystagmus in the first position of otolith repositioning maneuvers, and (3) appearing and disappearing nystagmus during the repositioning maneuvers; (B) the disorder has persisted for at least six months. (C) Normal MRI of the cerebrum.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

(A) Any disorder of the central nervous system (CNS), (B) migraine, (C) active Ménière's disease, and (D) severe eye disorders. Symptom questionnaire ('yes or no' answers during a personal interview) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) were used. Results We included 69 patients (20 males and 49 females) with a median age of 45 years (range 21-68 years). The median duration of the disease was five years and three months. The video-oculography confirmed BPPV in more than one semicircular canal in all patients. In 15% there was a latency of more than 1 min before nystagmus occurred. The Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) median score was 55.5 (score >60 indicates a risk of fall). Seventy-five percent were on 50-100% sick leave. Eighty-one percent had a history of head or neck trauma. Nineteen percent could not recall any history of trauma. In our cohort, nautical vertigo and dizziness (81%) was far more common than rotatory vertigo (20%). The majority of patients (87%) reported pain as a major symptom: neck pain (87%), headache (75%) and widespread pain (40%). Fatigue (85%), visual disturbances (84%), and decreased concentration ability (81%) were the most frequently reported symptoms. In addition, unexpected findings such as involuntary movements of the extremities, face, neck or torso were found during otolith repositioning maneuvers (12%). We describe one case, as an example, how treatment of his BPPV also resolved his chronic, severe pain condition. Conclusion This observational study demonstrates a likely connection between chronic BPPV and the following symptoms: nautical vertigo/dizziness, neck pain, headache, widespread pain, fatigue, visual disturbances, cognitive dysfunctions, nausea, and tinnitus. Implications Patients with complex pain conditions associated with nautical vertigo and dizziness should be evaluated with the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI)-questionnaire which can identify treatable balance disorders in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.