Name of the Procedure:

Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential (VEMP) Testing, including Cervical VEMP (cVEMP) and Ocular VEMP (oVEMP)

Summary

VEMP testing measures the reflexes of neck and eye muscles in response to sound stimuli. It helps to evaluate the functioning of the inner ear and the nerve pathways to the muscles. There are two types: cervical VEMP (cVEMP), which focuses on neck muscles, and ocular VEMP (oVEMP), which focuses on eye muscles.

Purpose

The VEMP test is used to diagnose balance disorders and issues with the inner ear's vestibular function. It helps identify problems in the saccule and utricle, parts of the inner ear, and their related neural pathways. The main goal is to pinpoint the source of dizziness or balance issues, aiding in the development of targeted treatment plans.

Indications

• Persistent dizziness or vertigo
• Balance disorders
• Suspected vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis
• Meniere’s disease
• Superior canal dehiscence syndrome (SCDS)
• Monitoring vestibular function post-surgery

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to avoid caffeine and certain medications that could affect the test results.
• Wear comfortable clothing to facilitate electrode placement.
• Hearing tests or other audiological assessments might be conducted prior to VEMP testing.

Procedure Description

1. cVEMP:

   • Electrodes are placed on the neck and sternum.
   • The patient lies flat while sound stimuli are delivered through earphones.
   • The neck muscles' responses to these sounds are recorded.

2. oVEMP:

   • Electrodes are placed around the eyes.
   • The patient looks upward while sound stimuli are delivered through earphones.
   • The eye muscles' responses to these sounds are recorded.

3. The equipment used includes surface electrodes, earphones, and a computer for recording and analyzing muscle activity.

4. VEMP tests are non-invasive and typically do not require anesthesia or sedation.

Duration

The entire process typically takes about 30-45 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in an audiology clinic or a specialized hospital department.

Personnel

Usually conducted by an audiologist or an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist). Technicians may assist with electrode placement and equipment operation.

Risks and Complications

• No significant risks are associated with VEMP testing.
• Some patients may feel slight discomfort from the adhesive electrodes or the sounds used in the test.
• Rarely, the loud sounds might trigger brief dizziness or discomfort.

Benefits

• Provides detailed information about the function of the inner ear and related pathways.
• Facilitates accurate diagnosis of vestibular disorders, leading to more effective treatment plans.
• Non-invasive and relatively quick to perform.

Recovery

• No special post-procedure care is needed.
• Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the test.
• Any discomfort from the electrodes or sounds typically resolves quickly.

Alternatives

• Electronystagmography (ENG) or Videonystagmography (VNG): Measures eye movements to evaluate vestibular function.
• Rotary chair testing: Assesses the vestibular system by recording eye movements while the patient is rotated in a motorized chair.
• MRI or CT scans: Used to visualize structures of the ear and brain but do not assess function directly.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel some mild discomfort from the electrode placement and the sound stimuli. The test environment is usually quiet and relaxed. Any dizziness or discomfort felt during the procedure is typically brief and manageable. Staff will provide comfort measures as needed and explain each step of the process to ensure patient ease.