About Vertigo Surgery

Vertigo is a sensation where a person feels as though they or their surroundings are spinning, which can be disorienting and debilitating. While the brain may naturally recover from vertigo in some cases, in others, it requires more intervention. Surgery is considered when there is clear evidence of an inner ear disorder on one side, when medical treatments are ineffective, and when the patient seeks a definitive solution. Common surgical procedures for vertigo include:

• Endolymphatic subarachnoid shunt

• Retrolabyrinthine vestibular neurectomy

• Cochleovestibular neurectomy

• Post ampullary nerve section (singular neurectomy)

Procedure of Vertigo Surgery

Surgery for vertigo is reserved for severe cases that do not respond to other treatments. The main surgical procedures are as follows:

• Vestibular Nerve Section: This involves cutting the vestibular nerve to disrupt signals from the inner ear to the brain. Performed through an incision behind the ear, this procedure reduces vertigo symptoms but may cause minimal hearing loss on the affected side.

• Labyrinthectomy: This is a more drastic procedure, where the entire inner ear balance system is removed. It is done under general anesthesia and eliminates vertigo symptoms but causes complete hearing loss in the affected ear.

• Endolymphatic Sac Decompression: This procedure reduces the pressure in the inner ear by opening the endolymphatic sac, allowing better fluid drainage. It can be done via an incision behind the ear or through endoscopic surgery.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

After vertigo surgery, patients may experience dizziness, nausea, and discomfort, which typically resolves within a few days to weeks. Patients should rest and follow the surgeon’s instructions, including limiting physical activities and avoiding certain medications or foods. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor recovery and ensure the success of the surgery.