The canalith repositioning procedure for the treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: a randomized controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) with a sham maneuver for the treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.


METHODS
We recruited 50 patients with a history of positional vertigo and unilateral positional nystagmus on physical examination (Dix-Hallpike maneuver). Patients were randomized to either the CRP (n = 24) or a sham maneuver (n = 26). Measured outcomes included resolution of vertigo and positional nystagmus at follow-up examination.


RESULTS
The mean duration of follow-up was 10 days for both groups. Resolution of symptoms was reported by 12 (50%) of the 24 patients in the CRP group and by 5 (19%) of the 26 patients in the sham group (P = .02). The results of the Dix-Hallpike maneuver were negative for positional nystagmus in 16 (67%) of 24 patients in the CRP group and in 10 (38%) of 26 patients in the sham group (P = .046).


CONCLUSIONS
The CRP is effective treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, and this procedure can be performed by general internists on outpatients with this disorder.
Froehling
D A
DA
Division of Area General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. 55905, USA.
Bowen
J M
JM
Mohr
D N
DN
Brey
R H
RH
Beatty
C W
CW
Wollan
P C
PC
Silverstein
M D
MD
D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D019416:Head Movements; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009759:Nystagmus, Pathologic / Q000628:therapy; D010037:Otolithic Membrane / Q000473:pathology*; D011187:Posture; D012444:Saccule and Utricle / Q000473:pathology; D012665:Semicircular Canals / Q000473:pathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014717:Vertigo / Q000628:therapy*