Effectiveness of using Epley’s manoeuvre in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Introduction: Generally BPPV is a self-limiting disorder that can resolve spontaneously due to the ability of the endolymph to dissolve otoconia. Traditionally, fatiguing vestibular rehabilitation exercises were given to patients with persistent BPPV. The introduction of the Canalith Repositioning procedure (CRP) or Particle Repositioning Manoeuvre (PRM) by Semont and Epley has revolutionized the management of BPPV to the point that most physicians, paramedical health care providers and even self-treated patients have used these manoeuvre. Our study is conducted to prove the efficacy of particle repositioning manoeuvres in the treatment of BPPV.Aim: To evaluate the outcome of Epley Maneuver in treating Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the ENT department of Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences, Kulasekharam, Kanyakumari district in a time period from December 2019 to February 2020. The sample size was taken as 35 patients who had presented with complaints of giddiness, dix hallpike’s and Epley’s maneuver were done for those patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The study was conducted after obtaining the clearance from Institutional Human Ethical Committee.Study Design: Prospective descriptive study.Results and analysis: When interviewed at the time of conducting the study, the vast majority of the patients claimed a dramatic improvement reflected in complete cessation of vertigo in 31 patients (88 %). In the remaining 4 patients, 2 patients showed improvement at the end of 1 week and two patient claimed no relief at all. Even though literature claims up to 30% of recurrence within one year in our study no patient had recurrence within this six months follow up.Conclusion: Epley Maneuver is safe, reliable and effective procedure that can be performed in general practice at the bedside without having any significant side effects in treating patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.Posterior semicircular canal involvement is most common. Right side is predominant to left. Particle repositioning manoeuvre is effective way to treat and give immediate relief to the patients even though it is a self-limiting disease.