Effect of mastoid oscillation on the outcome of the canalith repositioning procedure.
OBJECTIVE
The canalith repositioning procedure (CRP), as described by Epley, is a well-established method of treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Debate exists as to whether simultaneous application of a mastoid oscillator confers any added benefit. The aim of this study was to examine this question.


METHODS
Prospective randomized study.


METHODS
Eighty-four subjects with unilateral posterior canal BPPV were randomized into two groups. The oscillator group was treated by CRP with mastoid oscillation and the nonoscillator group was treated by CRP alone. Positive outcome was regarded as complete resolution of symptoms and a negative Dix-Hallpike's test after a 4 to 6 week follow-up period.


RESULTS
Five patients were lost to follow-up. Twenty-eight (72%) patients from the oscillator group and 26 (65%) patients from the nonoscillator group had a positive outcome. This difference was not significant (chi = 0.17, P =.68)


CONCLUSIONS
For the treatment of posterior canal BPPV, concurrent mastoid oscillation with CRP does not significantly alter the short-term outcome.
Motamed
M
M
Leicester Balance Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK. motamed2@hotmail.com
Osinubi
O
O
Cook
J A
JA
D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008416:Mastoid; D008875:Middle Aged; D010037:Otolithic Membrane / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D014717:Vertigo / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D014732:Vibration