Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo following osteotome sinus floor elevation
Background – Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is a relatively common benign disease of the inner ear, characterized by severe attacks of vertigo triggered by certain head movements or position changes. The condition is caused by tiny crystals that stick in the semicircular canals of the ear and affect the balance organ. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo may occur in direct relation to a head trauma, including removal of teeth and sinus floor augmentation. The most common form of Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is often treated with The Epley manoeuver in which the crystals are moved away from the posterior semicircular canal. Patients generally experience a good effect of the treatment and the prognosis is good, but recurrence may occur.
Case report – A 46-year-old woman was referred to the earnose- throat surgeon for diagnosis and treatment of severe dizziness and nausea. The day before, the patient had undergone closed sinus lift with implant insertion in the left side of the upper jaw. The medical history, clinical examination and Dix-Hallpike position test verified the diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Treatment with The Epley manoeuver resulted in symptom relief. No sign of relapse was observed after 2 months. Conclusion – Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo may occur immediately following dental treatment. The diagnosis is based on the medical history, clinical examination and Dix-Hallpike position test. The condition is usually well treated with The Epley manoeuver, but recurrence may occur.