[The value of dynamic posturography (Equitest) in preparing an expert's report].
BACKGROUND
Expert appraisals of vestibular disorders and their effects on daily life are essentially based on an evaluation of the patient's subjectively described symptoms. The aim of the present study was to ascertain the extent to which dynamic posturography is able to assist in the preparation of expert's reports.


METHODS
60 patients underwent a survey of their balance impairment. Both a nystagmus analysis, with its objective criteria, and dynamic posturography were carried out. The investigation into reduction of fitness for work (MdE) made reference to the criteria specified in the table by STOLL. The data obtained were subjected to both correlation and variance analysis.


RESULTS
Although the results of this analysis revealed no direct statistical dependency, they indicated a tendency for the composite values to be correlated with the nystagmus scores and/or the MdE values (when the nystagmus score and/or the MdE increases, the composite value decreases).


CONCLUSIONS
The Equitest is, according to the available data, not able to replace the currently valid MdE scores. Nevertheless, it represents a means of providing objective data about the vestibulo-spinal reflex. The test also reveals any tendencies towards simulation and aggravation. In the context of a specific nystagmus analysis, the Equitest offers an additional means of providing an objective background to back up the more subjective assessment of MdE.
Klinik und Poliklinik für Hals-, Nasen-, Ohrenheilkunde an der Medizinischen Hochschule Hannover, Hannover. schwab.burkhard@mh-hannover.de.
B
B
Schwab
P
P
Lattmann
R
R
Heermann
P R
PR
Issing
Th
T
Lenarz
K F
KF
Mack
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D004584:Electronystagmography / Q000295:instrumentation; D005104:Expert Testimony / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008306:Malingering / Q000175:diagnosis; D008575:Meniere Disease / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008875:Middle Aged; D004856:Postural Balance; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014724:Vestibular Function Tests / Q000295:instrumentation*