[Evaluation of the fistula test and the positional test in the diagnosis of a fistula of the labyrinth (author's transl)].

111 patients with a chronic otitis media and symptoms of dizziness were investigated. Out of 75 patients, who were operated, a fistula of the labyrinth was suspected in 25 patients due to a positive fistula test or a positive (fistula) positional test. A fistula was found in 15 patients. In those 15 cases both the fistula and the positional (fistula) test were positive in nine cases. In the remaining six cases three had a positive fistula test and three a positive (fistula) positional test. The other 50 patients all with negative fistula reactions one fistula was whereas found by the operation. This would indicate, that a positive fistula test and a positive (fistula) positional test are of value in the preoperative evaluation of patients with chronic otitis media and symptoms of vertigo.