부산대학교 도서관

Objectives: This study has two aims. First, we analyze the results of dynamic computerized posturography (Equitest) achieved by patients who have undergone acoustic neuroma removal or vestibular neurotomy. The examination is performed during the preoperative assessment and at several postoperative consultations. Secondly, after analyzing the results, we evaluate the interest of this type of examination for such patients during preoperative assessment and postoperative follow-up. Patients: 25 patients underwent acoustic neuroma removal and 8 vestibular neurotomy from June 1996 until September 1997. All patients included in the study underwent dynamic posturography follow-up, The schema proposed was an examination before surgery and then 10 days and 1 and 3 months after the operation. Not all patients underwent all examinations tit is a retrospective study). Method: Retrospective case review, Results: 50% of the patients (n = 8) who underwent vestibular neurotomy achieved a normal score at the sensory organisation test(SOT) of the Equitest within the first 6 postoperative weeks. 60% of the patients (n = 25) undergoing acoustic neuroma removal developed a central vestibular compensation 3 months after surgery. Two patients developed an inadequate balance strategy with excessive visual dependence detected by the SOT. Conclusions: According to our experience, the SOT is a useful examination during the follow-up period of patients who have undergone neurootologic surgery, it provides information about the progress of postoperative central vestibular compensation. The dynamic posturography also detects inadequate balance strategies, therefore, allowing a personalized vestibular reeducation adapted to each patient.