Partitioning of the labyrinth: application in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Partitioning of the labyrinth is a new laser technique that creates a fibrous band within the inner ear. The application of this technique to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is described in the first two patients to undergo this procedure. The partitioning technique involves blue-lining the posterior semicircular canal near its ampulla and lasing the blue-lined area. The technique provides a prompt decrease and the ultimate elimination of BPPV. There is some mild motion sensitivity of 6 to 8 weeks duration, and some transient (3-week) sensorineural hearing loss. The use of immediate postoperative low dose steroids provides marked decrease in the motion sensitivity and elimination of the transient sensorineural hearing loss. Lasing two adjacent areas on the posterior semicircular canal may prevent transient recurrence of the positional vertigo during the healing process.