Bilateral benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: an unusual complication of orthognathic surgery

Abstract

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of vertigo of labyrinthine origin and usually idiopathic. However, 15–20% of all cases occur after trauma to the head, and it has rarely been reported after maxillofacial surgery, so to the best of our knowledge this is the first report of its bilateral occurrence after orthognathic surgery. It resolves slowly, but symptoms are incapacitating. It can be diagnosed from the history and physical examination, including the Dix–Hallpike test. Maxillofacial surgeons should be aware of it in patients who complain of dizziness after orthognathic surgery, and should know how to manage it properly.