Long Term Treatment Results of Endolymphatic Sac Decompression in Meniere's Disease

Suh, Myung Whan; Kim, Bong Jik; Kim, Chong Sun

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The treatment result of endolymphatic sac decompression (ELSD) is controversial especially after a long term follow-up period. The aims of this study are to review the long term treatment outcome of ELSD and to analyzethe factors associated with the long term prognosis.
SUBJECTS AND METHOD
A retrospective review of medical records was performed. Sixteen patients (18 ears) who had been diagnosed with definite Meniere's disease, had undergone ELSD and been followed up for more than 2 years were included in this study. The average follow up period was 88.6 months, with the range spanning from 25.7 to 243.4 months. All results were described according to the 1995 AAO-HNS criteria.
RESULTS
After a long term follow-up, vertigo was successfully controlled in 66.6% and hearing was preserved or improved in 58.8%. Tinnitus and aural fullness were relieved in 27.3% and 60.0% respectively. The preoperative hearing threshold (p=0.03) and caloric test (p=0.05) showed a close relationship with the long term vertigo control after ELSD.
CONCLUSION
Although vertigo and hearing may deteriorate again after 2 years, ELSD generally seems to be able to control vertigo even after a long term follow up. Preoperative hearing threshold and caloric test may be able to serve as prognostic factors.