Residual Dizziness after Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common diseases that cause dizziness. It can be resolved relatively easily using canalith-repositioning maneuvers. However, some patients suffer from dizziness even after successful canalith-repositioning. This is an atypical dizziness felt in the absence of typical nystagmus after resolution of BPPV and named residual dizziness. Otolithic organ disorder, anxiety and persistence of debris in the canal have been reported to be associated with residual dizziness. Although 31-61% of BPPV patients suffer from residual dizziness, residual dizziness has not yet been clearly known not only the treatment but also the pathophysiology. This article investigate the factors associated with residual dizziness and treatment and prediction methods for residual dizziness.

Experimental selective posterior semicircular canal laser deafferentation

In this experimental study, we attempted to perform selective deafferentation of the posterior semicircular canal ampulla of guinea pigs using carbon dioxide laser beam. The results of this study document the efficacy of this procedure in achieving deafferentation of the posterior semicircular canal safely with regards to the other semicircular canals, the otolithic organ and the organ of hearing. Moreover, the procedure is performed with relative ease compared with other procedures previously described for selective deafferentation of the posterior semicircular canal. The clinical application of such a procedure for the treatment of intractable benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in humans is suggested.