A contemporary review of balance dysfunction following vestibular schwannoma surgery.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: This review aims to evaluate the literature pertaining to subjective balance dysfunction following vestibular schwannoma surgery; the effect of postoperative imbalance on disability, handicap and quality of life; and to determine factors that influence vestibular compensation.

METHODS

Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane databases, and relevant contemporary texts were searched for papers relating to subjective balance dysfunction following vestibular schwannoma surgery. The quality of this clinical evidence was evaluated.

RESULTS

The search yielded 26 studies assessing subjective balance dysfunction following vestibular schwannoma surgery. Analysis revealed that the majority of patients complain of balance dysfunction following surgery; however, a small number report disability or handicap. A few studies have demonstrated a decreased quality of life due to balance dysfunction. Factors have been identified that may contribute to a poor recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Further study is needed of the factors that influence vestibular compensation following vestibular schwannoma surgery. This will help to counsel patients prior to surgery and develop strategies for rehabilitation.