The Challenge of Vestibular Rehabilitation in a Patient with Bilateral Vestibular Dysfunction Following Surgery: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Bilateral vestibular dysfunction (BVD) is an uncommon finding in vestibular assessment, and the combination of BVD and orthopedic problems represents a rare and challenging case for treatment. Case Report: The patient had several previous back surgeries and received gentamycin after surgery. After 6 months, she experienced continuous dizziness, unsteadiness and oscillopsia. The patient underwent complete vestibular assessment and received an individualized vestibular rehabilitation program for 9 months. She achieved a complete recovery from all symptoms and returned to active social function. Conclusion: Vestibular rehabilitation could be an effective treatment for complicated cases of BVD. Adaptation exercises may be useful in young patients with BVD.

Keywords

• Adaptation
• Bilateral vestibular dysfunction
• Gentamicin
• Ototoxicity
• Vestibular rehabilitation