Postoperative vertigo after stapes surgery

What is it about?

In the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pécs both stapedectomy and stapedotomy were performed on a daily basis. Our study focused on comparing the degree of postoperative vertigo after the two types of surgery. We hypothesized that the smaller fenestration of the stapes footplate during stapedotomy limits exposure to the inner ear reducing the severity of dizziness. Vertigo was evaluated subjectively with a retrospective questionnaire and objectively with static posturography.

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Why is it important?

Many factors may play a role in the development of vertigo after stapes surgery, but it seems that the type of intervention does not influence it. On the 1st postoperative day, significantly fewer patients reported vertigo in the stapedotomy group and with significantly lower intensity. Results of the questionnaire regarding the later postoperative period showed no significant differences between the groups. Based on the analysis of the posturography test results, no significant difference was detected between the postoperative stability of the two groups. Results of the questionnaire and the posturography showed no correlation. Posturography test results did not confirm the presence of subjective vertigo.