Intratympanic instillation of gentamicin: an alternative to surgery in the treatment of unilateral Meniere 's disease.

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the use of intratympanic instillation of gentamicin in 40 patients with unilateral Meniere's disease [MD] who become eligible for the evaluation of treatment efficacy according to the guidelines set by the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery [AAO-HNS]. An initial ventilation tube was inserted in the affected ear, followed by a weekly instillation of 40 mg of gentamicin until the symptoms disappear. An objective evaluation using caloric and videonystagmography [VNG] was used for the follow up. Vertigo control was achieved in 78% of the patients. A predetermined maximum of four instillation sessions was set to prevent the sensorineural hearing loss. An 18-month follow up was reported. The intratympanic instillation of gentamicin showed an adequate vertigo control with few side effects and is considered a good alternative to surgical treatment