Spontaneous and traumatic perilymph fistulas

Abstract

Clinicians have been aware of the problem of post-stapedectomy perilymph fistulas for some time. The existence of non-surgical oval and round window fistulas has been known and was first described in detail by Fee in 1968. This paper concerns a small series of patients with spontaneous and traumatic perilymph fistulas. Five oval window fistulas and one round window fistula are reported. Clinical features, audiometric, radiographic and vestibular findings are discussed. The etiology of traumatic and spontaneous fistulas is not well understood, but seems to bear a relationship to sudden increased in intracranial pressure transmitted to the inner ear through the cochlear aqueduct. Middle ear pressure changes, as seen in acoustic or barotrauma, may also cause these leaks. Indications for surgery and techniques of perilymph fistula identification and repair are discussed in the paper. Surgical correction led to relief of vertigo in 80 percent of patients in this series, and significant hearing improvements were seen in 50 percent of the patients. In evaluating patients with sudden sensori-neural hearing loss, or persistent vestibular symptoms following head or ear trauma, the otologist should keep in mind the possibility of a perilymph fistula and actively investigate these patients. Evidence presented in this paper and in the literature suggest that identification and correction of spontaneous and traumatic perilymph fistulas can lead to resolution of vestibular symptoms and improved hearing in a significant number of patients with these lesions.