Clinical Study to Determine Occult Vestibular Dysfunction in Patients of Chronic Otitis Media using Computerized Static Posturography

Introduction Various studies have shown high incidence of subjective vestibular dysfunction in cases of chronic otitis media (COM). Evaluation of vestibular dysfunction in chronic otitis media patients is becoming an integral part of comprehensive management of COM. In our study, we have evaluated vestibular dysfunction in patients with COM, using computerized static posturography, an objective technique in contrast to other subjective tests of vestibular dysfunction.

Aims and Objectives To evaluate vestibular dysfunction in patients with chronic otitis media using computerized static posturography.

Materials and Methods In this prospective case–control study done over a period of 1.5 years, 50 cases of COM and 50 healthy controls were included and they underwent computerized static posturography. Parameters taken were somesthetic, visual, and vestibular scores in both anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) axes; and in combined axis (AP + ML) and these scores were compared with those of healthy controls.

Results A total of 50 cases of COM (average disease period: 5.7 years), of both sexes, with age range of 15 to 60 years and mean age of 31.58 years were taken. On analyzing above mentioned parameters using SPSS software, we found no significant difference in vestibular function in cases of COM as compared with healthy individuals.

Discussion The outcome of computerized static posturography can be quantified with respect to changes in center-of-force sway amplitude, distance, or velocity, which, by virtue of not being burdened by subjective interpretation, its results can be, documented both graphically and numerically.

Conclusion This study, further solidified with objective evidence, raises a question on COM without complications being directly responsible for vestibular dysfunction.

Clinical Significance Hence, based on the results of this study, we observe that there is no significant difference in vestibular function in cases of COM as compared with healthy individuals when assessed using static posturography. This study has evaluated vestibular aspect of balance; the results of visual and somesthetic inputs also have been studied to provide a comprehensive balance evaluation. Though in future, a larger sample size and including both static and dynamic posturography in balance evaluation would give better picture.