[Results of vestibular neurotomy from a socio-professional point of view].

Vestibular neurotomy, in addition to the fact that it preserves the hearing, is considered to be the most effective form of treatment for incapacitating unilateral Menières disease which is resistant to medical treatment. The authors have carried out a retrospective study of 20 cases of vestibular neurotomy operated on between 1986 and 1996. They have evaluated the results of the suppression of vertigo and the improvement of quality of life. Each patient was given a questionnaire. The parameters studied were the quality of daily life, professional life and driving ability. The mean follow-up period was 3 years. This study confirms the good results obtained with vestibular neurotomy for vertigo: complete control of attacks of vertigo was obtained in 90% of cases according to the criteria laid down by the American Committee on Hearing and Balance, as modified in 1985 (AAO, 1985). This study has also confirmed that the quality of patients lives is greatly enhanced both for everyday activities, professional activities and driving.