Vestibular

Audiology

 

VNG/ENG

A Videonystagmography (VNG)/Electronystagmography (ENG) test is recommended for persons who have dizziness or balance problems. It is used to help determine the cause of your balance difficulties. A VNG/ENG measures the response of the vestibular system. The patient may experience some dizziness during the testing.

 

The balance system works by contributing information from the inner ear, vision, and physical movements/sensations. A VNG/ENG measures the balance system's reactions to stimulation from the inner ear, vision, movements and positions. The audiologist who performs the VNG/ENG will measure the vestibular system reactions by either of the following methods:

1. by having the patient wear a special pair of lenses or goggles (VNG).

2. by taping sensors (electrodes) to the face (ENG), which measures eye movements.

    There are three basic portions to the VNG/ENG:

• Sitting and watching lights move on a light bar.

• Sitting and lying in various positions with the eyes closed and eyes open.

• Having cool and warm water or air alternately put into each ear.

    The VNG/ENG takes 1 ½ to 2 hours to perform.

 

 

Rotary Chair

A Rotary Chair test is recommended for persons who have dizziness or balance problems. It is used to help determine the cause and balance disability. A rotary chair test measures the severity of the vestibular response to motion (chair and head rotation). Some dizziness may be experienced during testing.

 

The balance system works by combining information from the inner ear, vision, and physical sensations and movements. A rotary chair test measures the balance system's reaction to stimulation from motion. The patient will be seated in a small, dark room. The patient will sit in a special chair with seatbelts and shoulder straps. The patient is able to speak to and hear the audiologist during testing. The audiologist who performs the rotary chair test will measure the balance system reactions by having the patient wear a special headset with a pair of clear lenses over the eyes. The chair will move slowly back and forth or in circles. At other times the chair will be still and the patient will watch stripes or dots move as they are projected on the wall. Rotary chair testing takes approximately one hour.

 

Patient Instructions

Before the VNG/ENG or Rotary Chair test please tell your physician and the audiologist if you have previously have had any of the following:

• Heart or blood pressure problems

• Heart pacemaker, especially an intracardiac catheter or pacemaker with exposed leads

• Neck and back problems, especially difficulty turning or tipping the head

• Hearing loss

• Serious vision problems including; legal blindness, lens replacement, artificial eye

• Seizures

• Stroke or a neurological disorder

• Cerumen (ear wax) build up or impaction

• Skin allergies to adhesive tape, rubbing alcohol, or any type of soap

• Claustrophobia

Other instructions:

• Do not wear make-up, eye liner or mascara to the appointment

• Do not eat for at least four hours prior to the appointment

• Do not drink alcohol or use any recreational drugs for at least 48 hours before the appointment

• Do not drink tea, coffee, cola, or anything else with caffeine for 24 hours before the appointment

• Do not take any barbiturates, sedatives, tranquilizers, stimulants, antidepressants, antihistamines, or anti-dizziness medications for 24 hours before the appointment. If you take anticonvulsant or antidepressant medications, please consult your physician before discontinuing use. It is acceptable to take antibiotics, heart and blood pressure medications, and medications for diabetes or kidney disease.

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The Bridges Center for Healthy Life Transitions | Liana M. Bachand, Director (989-774-1274)

2103 Health Professions Building, Central Michigan University | Phone 989-774-2341 | Fax 989-774-2405 | bridges@cmich.edu