Name of the Procedure:

Spontaneous Nystagmus Test
(Common name: Nystagmus Assessment; Technical term: Oculomotor Testing including gaze and fixation nystagmus, with video-oculography recording)

Summary

A Spontaneous Nystagmus Test assesses the presence of involuntary eye movements (nystagmus) while focusing on a target or looking in different directions. This evaluation helps diagnose and understand balance and dizziness issues.

Purpose

The test is used to determine if abnormal eye movements (nystagmus) are present, which can indicate issues with the inner ear, brain, or the pathways that connect them. The goal is to pinpoint the cause of symptoms like dizziness or imbalance and aid in developing a treatment plan.

Indications

• Persistent dizziness or vertigo
• Imbalance or unsteady gait
• Unexplained nausea and vomiting
• Suspected vestibular dysfunction
• Neurological disorders affecting eye movements

Preparation

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sedative medications for at least 24 hours before the test.
• Inform the physician of all medications being taken.
• Wear comfortable clothing and avoid heavy meals on the day of the test.
• Comprehensive physical and neurological exams may be conducted beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Setup: The patient is seated in a chair, and video-oculography goggles are placed over the eyes to record eye movements.
2. Baseline Recording: The patient is asked to look straight ahead while their spontaneous nystagmus is recorded.
3. Gaze Testing: The patient is instructed to look in different directions (right, left, up, and down) while eye movements are recorded.
4. Fixation Testing: A target is presented for the patient to fixate on, and any suppression of nystagmus during fixation is noted.
5. Analysis: The recordings are analyzed to identify any patterns or abnormalities in eye movements.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The test is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, otolaryngology or neurology office, or a specialized vestibular diagnostic lab.

Personnel

• Audiologist or specialized technician
• Otolaryngologist (ENT) or neurologist

Risks and Complications

The procedure is non-invasive and considered low-risk.

• Rarely, patients might experience transient dizziness or discomfort during the test.
• In case of vertigo, symptoms are usually short-lived and resolve quickly.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of vestibular dysfunction.
• Targeted treatment plans can be developed.
• Symptoms such as dizziness and imbalance can be better managed.
• Results are typically available immediately following the test.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time is required.
• Patients may resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss test results and treatment options.

Alternatives

• Clinical Bedside Testing (e.g., Head Impulse Test, Dix-Hallpike maneuver)
• Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP)
• Electronystagmography (ENG)
• MRI or CT scan of the brain or inner ear

Pros: Alternative tests may pinpoint specific vestibular disorders; non-invasive imaging options provide detailed anatomical information. Cons: Some may be less sensitive or provide less detailed functional information compared to the nystagmus test with recording.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will feel minimal discomfort. They might experience brief dizziness or disorientation, especially during gaze and fixation tests, but this is generally mild and temporary. Comfort measures like short breaks can help manage any discomfort.