Positional Vertigo Research Articles

What are the views of those participating in a trial investigating acute post-traumatic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo? A qualitative study

ABSTRACT Objective The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of patients and healthcare professionals participating in a randomized feasibility trial exploring the management of acute post-traumatic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), and to establish the acceptability and tolerability of BPPV assessment and treatment procedures. Methods This was a multi-center qualitative study nested within a wider randomized feasibility trial. Purposive sampling was used to gather a cohort of healthcare professionals and patients from three major trauma centres in London, UK. Data were gathered using semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using Framework analysis. Results Fifteen healthcare professionals and 26 patients participated. Patients and healthcare professionals reported acute BPPV diagnosis was acceptable and practicable. However, divergence was noted regarding views of randomization. Participants proposed several research delivery and protocol modifications for a future trial, including changes to study design and outcome measures. Conclusions Healthcare professionals and patients participating in a multi-center qualitative study felt post-traumatic BPPV was feasible and acceptable to diagnose and treat acutely. Findings from this study will enhance the content and delivery of a future trial and may assist in influencing the development of clinical practice guidelines.

Vestibular Syncope and Acute Peripheral Vestibular Deficit: A Case Report.

Vestibular syncope is a rare condition in which vertigo may cause syncopal attacks; however, the term has been associated with confusion because it has been ascribed to completely different vestibular and neurological conditions, from dizziness to Menière disease (MD), to the neurovegetative symptoms in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and central vertebrobasilar hyperfusion. A 75-year-old woman with vasodepressive vasovagal syncope, confirmed by a tilt test with trinitrine administration, was referred for an audiological and vestibular assessment showing an acute unilateral peripheral vestibular deficit on the right side. The diagnosis is peripheral acute vestibular deficits. Interventions and outcomes are vestibular treatment and rehabilitation. The patient's vasovagal symptoms immediately improved and were completely resolved. Peripheral vestibular deficits might also trigger syncopal episodes and must be considered and studied by a complete audiological and vestibular evaluation. By restoring the peripheral vestibular function of the right labyrinth after vestibular treatment, a complete long-term resolution of multiple vasovagal syncopal episodes was observed together with normalization of the tilt test.

Comparing the efficacy of repositioning manoeuvres over medications in the treatment of posterior and lateral canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: a prospective, randomized and comparative study

Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a benign peripheral disorder of vestibular system and is the most common cause of peripheral vertigo. The aim of our study was to compare and assess the efficacy of Epley’s and Barbeque roll over manoeuvres with labyrinthine sedatives in the management of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) over a period of one month and to know the prevalence of BPPV in different age and gender groups among the two semicircular canals(posterior and lateral). Methods-This prospective randomized comparative clinical trial included 60 patients with clinically diagnosed BPPV in a tertiary care centre and were investigated for a period on one year. The clinical diagnosis of specific canal type of BPPV was assessed based on the diagnostic tests, Dix Hallpike test and McClure test. In manoeuvre group, posterior canal BPPV, Epley’s manoeuvre was performed and for lateral canal BPPV, Barbeque roll over manoeuvre was performed as treatment. In pharmacological group, labyrinthine sedatives i.e. either cinnarizine 25mg twice a day or betahistine 16 mg twice a day were administered for one month as treatment. Results: Results were assessed at the end of 48 hours (immediate time period) and at four weeks’ time period after the treatment, under three different outcome categories namely disappeared, improving and unchanged. Treatment of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo with repositioning manoeuvre had higher success percentage of 83.3% than the medical treatment. Conclusion: The treatment of BPPV with repostioning manoeuvres had a better outcome than the medical treatment.

Dizziness, light-headedness or a clot-in-transit: obtaining a history and physical exam is both a science and an art

Introduction: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) rarely presents with dizziness as the primary complaint, which can delay diagnosis. We report a rare case of dizziness as the chief complaint for a clot-in-transit and extensive bilateral pulmonary emboli. Case description: A 70-year-old woman presented to the emergency room (ER) with dizziness and a fall, without reporting loss of consciousness. Her symptoms included positional dizziness, tinnitus and visual darkness, alongside prior exertional fatigue and dull chest pressure. Despite a history of left leg oedema and inconsistent use of medications for hypertension and diabetes, initial examinations suggested vestibular neuritis and decompensated heart failure, confirmed by echocardiogram findings and response to prednisone. While hospitalised, she experienced pre-syncope after showering, initially deemed vasovagal. However, exertional hypotension led to further investigation, revealing right heart strain. Ultrasound identified a left popliteal deep vein thrombosis, and a computed tomography (CT) angiogram confirmed extensive bilateral pulmonary emboli with right heart strain. Cardiology discovered large, mobile thrombi in transit in the heart, necessitating an urgent mechanical thrombectomy. Following treatment, her pulmonary pressure improved, and she was discharged on anticoagulation medicine. One month later, an echocardiogram showed normalised heart function. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of differentiating dizziness from pre-syncope, as exertional pre-syncope can indicate an obstructive physiology such as VTE. Cognitive bias can obscure diagnosis in atypical presentations. A pulmonary embolism response team could improve management of these cases, where prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for favourable outcomes.

Advancing personalized healthcare: leveraging explainable AI for BPPV risk assessment.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common vestibular disorder significantly impacting older adults, characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by head movements. Accurate and timely diagnosis of BPPV can be challenging due to its overlapping symptoms with other conditions. Machine learning (ML) offers a promising approach to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of various ML models in predicting BPPV. This common vestibular disorder significantly impacts older adults. This research sought to build models that could accurately predict BPPV using readily available clinical data and to assess the application of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) to enhance transparency and trust in ML-driven diagnoses. In this study, we trained and evaluated several ML models on a rich dataset from Froedtert Hospital involving 7,760 patients characterized by a diverse range of demographic and clinical features. This robust dataset enabled a detailed exploration of the factors influencing BPPV. By employing explainable AI techniques, we aimed to enhance the predictive accuracy of our models and provide clinicians with transparent and interpretable insights into diagnostic reasoning, bridging the gap between machine learning efficacy and clinical usability. Gradient Boosting emerged as the most effective model, exhibiting the highest accuracy (85.422%), F1 (0.851), and AUC (0.911). Statistical analysis revealed significant demographic disparities in BPPV occurrence. Specifically, the odds ratio (OR) for BPPV among "White or Caucasian" individuals was 2.433 (p < 0.001), indicating a higher prevalence compared to other races. Conversely, "Black or African American" individuals had an OR of 0.851 (p < 0.05), and "Asian" individuals had an OR of 0.791 (p = 0.26). The study also found an OR of 4.498 (p < 0.001) for "Not Hispanic or Latino" individuals, suggesting a significantly higher prevalence of BPPV in this group. The application of XAI facilitated a deeper understanding and trust in model decisions, particularly highlighting how model predictions align with clinical indicators. The study confirms that machine learning, complemented by Explainable AI, can effectively predict BPPV with high accuracy and interpretability. Leveraging XAI enhances the usability and acceptance of ML predictions in clinical settings, enabling healthcare providers to integrate these insights into their diagnostic processes. Future work should focus on further integrating these models into clinical practice to facilitate early and accurate BPPV diagnosis. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13755-024-00317-3.

Which Canal BPPV Should be Checked for Residual Disease after 1 Week?

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the residual disease rate due to the affected canal in patients diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and reveal the factors affecting the residual disease. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive investigation was conducted to determine the effect of the affected canal, sociodemographic data, body mass index, hospital admission time, systemic disease history, betahistine use, and previous otologic vertigo history on the residual BPPV rate. This investigation was carried out on 201 patients who underwent repositioning maneuvers with BPPV diagnosis and came for a follow-up 1 week later, ensuring a robust and reliable dataset. Results: Two hundred one patients were included in the study: 91 (45.3%) male and 110 (54.7%) female. The mean age of the patients was 60.44 + 13.83 (min = 23-max = 90) years. Residual disease was significantly higher in bilateral canal involvement (P = .001), anterior canal involvement, and those presenting 72 hours after the onset of the vertigo attack (P = .001). There was no significant difference between residual disease and those with successful initial maneuver results regarding age, gender, obesity, canalolithiasis, or cupulolithiasis. Conclusion: The most effective treatment for BPPV is canalith reposition maneuvers. We recommend that patients be called for follow-up after 1 week, especially in cases of anterior canal involvement and bilateral involvement. These findings provide valuable insights for the management of BPPV.

Gait alteration during turning while walking in older adults with benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo

Background Older adults with Benign Paroxysmal Positioning Vertigo (BPPV) may present with unsteadiness that affects gait patterns. Objective This study investigated the spatiotemporal gait parameters and indicators of turning difficulty during the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test in older adults with BPPV. Methods This case-controlled study collected data from older adults aged 65 and above with BPPV, young adults with BPPV and older adults without BPPV. Postural stability and self-perception of stability were measured using the Functional Gait Analysis and the Malay version of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, respectively. The spatiotemporal gait parameters were recorded using a camera. The one-way ANOVA test was used for statistical analysis. Results Older adults with BPPV presented with alteration in gait parameters (time and number of steps) compared to older adults without BPPV and adults with BPPV during the TUG test (p < 0.05). During the straight walking tasks of the TUG test, there were significant differences in stride length and velocity between the three groups (p < 0.05). Older adults with BPPV presented with less pivoting and took longer time and more steps to complete the turning phase of the TUG. Conclusions The findings suggest that gait performance was compromised in older adults with BPPV.

Dorsolateral Transdural Surgical Management of Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension From Ventral Dural Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks: Case Series and Technical Report

BACKGROUND and OBJECTIVES: Spontaneous intracranial hypotension is an uncommon but debilitating condition that commonly involves positional headaches and vertigo. One cause is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage from ventral dural defects from calcified spinal discs. Patients can undergo epidural blood or fibrin glue patches as treatment; however, in cases where the leak does not resolve, surgical repair of the dural tear may be warranted. We aim to describe a case series and technical notes for these patients. METHODS: Patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension because of myelography-confirmed ventral dural defect from calcified thoracic disc, who were treated surgically between June 2020 and March 2024, were included in the study cohort. Demographic information, clinical course, and postoperative outcomes were collected. The surgical technique was also described based on an illustrative case. RESULTS: Twelve consecutive patients underwent surgery between June 2020 and March 2024 with postoperative records. The median age at the time of surgery was 41.5 years (range: 28-58 years). Male patients comprised 50% of the cohort. Dural defects were spread throughout the thoracic spine in the cohort. While all patients reported positional headaches, other symptoms included vertigo, pulsatile tinnitus, and neck pain. Median length of follow-up time was 6.5 weeks. There were no surgical complications or permanent neurologic deficits. All patients had radiologic cure of their leaks with absence of extradural CSF on postoperative MR imaging. Ten patients (83.3%) had complete resolution of spontaneous intracranial hypotension-related symptoms. Two patients did suffer from rebound headaches postoperatively. CONCLUSION: The dorsolateral transdural surgical approach is a safe and effective method to repair type 1 CSF leaks caused by ventral dural defects. Our case series of 12 patients did not involve any surgical or immediate postoperative complications, and all patients had radiologic resolution of their leaks with relief of positional headaches. Two patients experienced continued headaches after treatment.

EFFECTIVENESS OF EPLEY MANEUVER AND GANS REPOSITIONING MANEUVER ON DIZZINESS, BALANCE AND KINESIOPHOBIA IN PATIENTS WITH POSTERIOR CANAL BENIGN PAROXYSMAL POSITIONAL VERTIGO

Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most prevalent type of peripheral vestibular vertigo, typically affecting the posterior semi-circular canal. Objective: The objective of study was to compare the effectiveness of Epley maneuver and Gans repositioning maneuver on dizziness, balance and kinesiophobia in patients with posterior canal BPPV. Methods: 30 BPPV patients were selected and assigned into two groups based on the selection criteria. Group-A (N=15), received Epley maneuver and 15 were assigned to Group-B, undergone Gans repositioning maneuver, for 20 minutes per session, 3 session (alternate days) per week for 3 weeks. Cawthorne and Cooksey Exercises were given to both the group as common intervention. Dizziness, balance and kinesiophobia were assessed both before and after the 3-week intervention program using Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scale, Timed-Up and Go (TUG) test and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), respectively. The collected data were subsequently tabulated and analyzed using appropriate statistical tools. Results: The unpaired ‘t’ test analysis of dizziness and balance revealed statistically significant scores in DHI(t=2.2259) and TUG(t=2.2547), respectively, at a 95% confidence interval. Consequently, Group A demonstrated significant reduction in dizziness and balance improvement in patients with posterior canal BPPV. The scores of Kinesiophobia for both the groups were (A, Mean=31.6; B, Mean= 32.2), which showed no significant difference(t=1.074), that means the group showed the improvement from baseline. Conclusion: The study concluded that a 3-week intervention combining the Epley maneuver with Cawthorne-Cooksey exercises was effective in treating dizziness, balance and kinesiophobia in patients with posterior canal BPPV. Implication: The Epley and Gans maneuvers effectively reduce dizziness and improve balance in patients with posterior canal BPPV. They also may alleviate kinesiophobia, enhancing patient confidence in movement. These interventions highlight the importance of targeted therapy in managing vestibular disorders, promoting functional recovery and quality of life.

Development of the continuous ambulatory vestibular assessment (CAVA) system to provide an automatic diagnosis for vestibular conditions: protocol for a multicentre, single-arm, non-randomised clinical trial

IntroductionDizziness is a common symptom that can occur in an unpredictable and episodic manner leading to the imprecise reporting of symptoms. Patients will often see many specialists before receiving a...

Several components of postural control are affected by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo but improve after particle-repositioning maneuvers: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo is a vestibular disorder causing vertigo and imbalance. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to explore the impact of benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo and repositioning maneuvers on postural control. In September 2024, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and reference lists of included studies were systematically searched. Articles comparing measures of postural control between patients and controls, and/or pre- and posttreatment were considered relevant. Study selection, data extraction and identification of risk of bias were done by two researchers. If possible, meta-analysis was performed with Review Manager version 5.4.1 and standardized mean differences were calculated with a random-effects model. Twenty-one of the 37 included studies were useful for meta-analyses. Meta-analyses revealed that benign paroxysmal positional vertigo negatively affects perception of verticality (p < .001; SMD = 0.73; 95% CI = [0.39;1.08]) and sensory orientation (p < .001; SMD = -1.66; 95% CI = [-2.08, -1.23]). The perception of verticality (p < .001; SMD = 0.99; 95% CI = [0.76;1.21]) and sensory orientation (p < .001; SMD = -0.77; 95% CI = [-1.11, -0.44]) improved after treatment with repositioning maneuvers. Results of systematic review indicate stability in gait was impaired, vertigo but improve after repositioning maneuvers. Limits of stability were impaired in older patients, but did not improved after repositioning maneuvers. Benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo affects several underlying components of postural control. Repositioning maneuvers can significantly improve the related postural control impairments. This may partly explain the increased odds of falling in these patients, and the positive treatment effect of repositioning maneuvers on falls and fear of falling.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: A case report in which four wrongs made a right.

Repositioning maneuvers for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) designed to induce otoconial movement in one canal can trigger and sometimes unwittingly treat BPPV in other canals. Patients with BPPV are best managed by precisely diagnosing the canal variant and using correctly performed, standardized testing and treatment maneuvers.

Analysis of influencing factors of residual dizziness after repositioning of horizontal semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Background Horizontal semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo(HSC-BPPV) is the second most common type of BPPV. It is difficult to diagnose and treat, which has a serious impact on the prognosis of patients. Objectives To study the clinical features of HSC-BPPV and the influencing factors of residual dizziness (RD). Materials and methods The clinical data of 358 patients with BPPV were retrospectively collected. The differences between HSC-BPPV and posterior semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (PSC-BPPV) were compared, and the influencing factors of RD after HSC-BPPV repositioning were analyzed. Results ① Compared with PSC-BPPV, HSC-BPPV had a lower success rate of first repositioning (64.7 vs. 75.0%), a higher incidence of RD (57.3 vs. 43.8%), and a higher DHI score (40.0 vs. 34.0), and the differences were statistically significant (p < .05). ② Logistic regression analysis showed that age ≥60 years, secondary, DHI score, successful first repositioning were the influencing factors for the development of RD after HSC-BPPV repositioning (p < .05). Conclusions and significance The diagnosis and treatment of HSC-BPPV is difficult, and RD is prone to occur. Clinicians need to strengthen the training of HSC-BPPV diagnosis and treatment to reduce the occurrence and progression of RD.

ADVANCEMENTS IN VESTIBULAR PHYSIOTHERAPY: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Purpose. Vestibular disorders pose significant challenges to individuals' daily functioning and quality of life, necessitating effective management strategies. This comprehensive review explores modern advancements in vestibular physiotherapy, encompassing assessment techniques, intervention modalities, technological innovations, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Material/Methods. Accurate assessment and diagnosis are essential for tailoring treatment plans to individual needs. Traditional clinical tests, such as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver and head impulse test (HIT), remain foundational while emerging technologies like video head impulse testing (vHIT) offer objective measures of vestibular function. Treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) often involves canalith repositioning maneuvers (CRM), with recent modifications and augmented reality applications enhancing efficacy and patient comfort. Results. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) plays a pivotal role in promoting central nervous system compensation for vestibular deficits. Incorporating exercises targeting balance, gaze stabilization, habituation, and sensory integration, VRT facilitates symptom reduction and functional improvement. Technological innovations, including virtual reality (VR) systems and smartphone applications, augment traditional VRT approaches, enhancing engagement and accessibility. Moreover, interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals ensures comprehensive management of vestibular disorders. Physiotherapists, otolaryngologists, neurologists, audiologists, and psychologists collaborate to deliver personalized care and empower patients through education and counseling. Conclusions. Modern vestibular physiotherapy offers a multifaceted approach to address the complex needs of individuals with vestibular disorders. By leveraging evidence-based practices, integrating technological solutions, and fostering interdisciplinary partnerships, healthcare providers can optimize treatment outcomes and enhance patients' overall well-being.

John McNaughton Epley: his life and theory that challenged convention in the study of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

John McNaughton Epley: his life and theory that challenged convention in the study of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Addressing the Overlapping Challenges of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD): Impacts and Integrated Management.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) are challenging vestibular disorders with overlapping symptoms that complicate diagnosis and treatment. BPPV causes transient vertigo with head movements, while PPPD involves persistent dizziness and unsteadiness. Both significantly impact the quality of life, including emotional well-being. This review examines the relationship between BPPV and PPPD, stressing the need for comprehensive, multidisciplinary management. Effective treatment must address both physical and psychological aspects, using personalized care, technological innovations, and patient education to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those affected.

Efficacy of the Automated Mechanical Repositioning Chairs Treatment for Patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

Efficacy of the Automated Mechanical Repositioning Chairs Treatment for Patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

Association of Vitamin-D Deficiency with Vestibular Function in Patients with Idiopathic Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

Association of Vitamin-D Deficiency with Vestibular Function in Patients with Idiopathic Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation. Current concepts on the role of betahistine in the complex treatment of patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

The treatment of patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an urgent issue in modern medicine.Expert Council on the diagnosis and treatment of BPPV was held in Moscow on June 1, 2024. Timely diagnosis and effective treatment play a key role in the management of patients with BPPV, reduce the risk of falls and related injuries, prevent the development of emotional disorders and impairment of daily activities. Accurate patient routing and selection of appropriate treatment can significantly reduce the duration of disability and the burden on the healthcare system. Relatively simple positional tests aimed at detecting involvement of various semicircular canals have been found to be of paramount importance in the diagnosis of BPPV. Repositioning maneuvers are of paramount importance in the treatment of patients with BPPV. They vary depending on the canal affected and aim to move the otoliths out of the semicircular canals to the vestibule of the labyrinth. If repositioning maneuvers can not be performed, effective methods of vestibular gymnastics can be used. When discussing drug therapy, it was found that the use of betahistine in addition to repositioning maneuvers or vestibular gymnastics increases the efficacy of therapy, accelerates the recovery process and prevents the development of residual non-positional vertigo.

Episodic syndromes associated with migraine (clinical and epidemiological study in pediatric practice)

Migraine in children can manifest itself in non-pain clinical phenotypes, among which several episodic syndromes associated with migraine (ESAM) are identified. A significant association with the later development of migraine was found for infantile colic syndrome, benign torticollis, abdominal migraine (AM), cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) and benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV).Objective: to identify the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of childhood ESAM and its association with migraine.Material and methods. The study was conducted in Tambov Children's Clinical Hospital. A total of 250 children were included in the study: 120 (48%) girls and 130 (52%) boys aged 5 to 18 years (mean age 13±2.9 years, median age 13 [11; 15] years) with headache complaints. The diagnosis of ESAM was made according to the ICHD-3 criteria.Results. ESAM was observed in 95 (38%) patients aged 5–18 years. An analysis of the prevalence of ESAM in the different age groups showed that in children aged 5–10 years CVS (n=12; 4.8%) was more common than AM (n=6; 2.4%) and BPV (n=5; 2%). In the group of 11–14 year-old children, the frequency of AM clearly predominated (n=11; 4.4%), while in the group of 15–18 year-old adolescents, BPV (n=15; 6%) was observed more frequently compared to CVS (n=9; 3.5%) and AM (n=5; 2%).Conclusion. The results of the study indicate a high incidence of ESAM in child and adolescent patients of somatic and neurological hospitals. The data obtained show the importance of timely diagnosis and correct treatment of ESAM.