Evaluation of the functions of the semicircular canals in patients with middle ear pathologies by video Head Impulse Test (vHIT)

Abstract

functions in this test are evaluated by recording the head and eye movements during the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR). It is important to evaluate vestibular functions for making appropriate treatment deci-sions. However, caloric testing might be inappropriate for patients with external or middle ear pathologies, as in these patients, stimulation with cold water might not be transmitted appropri-ately to the horizontal semicircular canal; as examples, patients with cholesteatoma, otitis media with ANCA-associated vasculitis, acute otitis media, otitis media with effusion and facial nerve schwannoma have been cited. In this review, evaluation of the functions of the semicircular canals in patients with middle ear pathologies by vHIT are described.