Clinical experience with symptomatic superior canal dehiscence in a single neurotologic practice.

OBJECTIVE

To discuss the range of signs and symptoms of patients with superior canal dehiscence syndrome identified in a single neurotologic practice.

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review of 35 patients diagnosed with superior canal dehiscence from April 2000 to June 2007.

RESULTS

All patients had evidence of superior canal dehiscence on computed tomography. These 35 patients represented 0.56% of new patients seen over a five-year period. The incidence of clinical symptoms and signs is compared to other published series. The mean vestibular evoked myogenic potential thresholds of affected ears are significantly lower than the mean vestibular evoked myogenic potential thresholds of unaffected ears. To date, 5 of 35 patients have undergone transmastoid occlusion of the superior semicircular canal with significant improvement in clinical symptoms in 4 of 5 cases.

CONCLUSION

Not all patients with a diagnosis of superior canal dehiscence syndrome will have classic symptoms and signs. A high index of suspicion with careful clinical examination and properly performed ancillary testing is required to confirm this diagnosis.