What does a VEMP test tell you?
The purpose of the VEMP test is to determine if the saccule and the vestibular nerve are intact and working properly. When functioning correctly, the saccule and the inferior vestibular nerves work together to send signals to the muscles of the eyes through the nerves system in response to head movements.
What does a VEMP measure?
→ Vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing is a relatively new vestibular testing technique that determines vestibular function by applying a repetitive sound stimulus to one ear and then averaging the reaction of the muscle activity in response to each sound click or pulse.
What is a VEMP threshold?
VEMP threshold was defined as the lowest level at which both the P13 and N23 were clearly definable and replicable. Amplitude, P13 and N23 latency were calculated on the average of two replicable trials at threshold and in response to 123 dB SPL to 500 Hz toneburst stimuli.
How long does a Vemp test take?
After the electrodes are in place, earphones will be placed in your ear canals. You will hear a loud series of clicks. During the testing, you will be lifting and turning your head. These tests today will take approximately 90 to 105 minutes to complete.
Who performs Vemp test?
otolaryngologists
The vestibular area of the ear controls balance. If the testing can determine if your symptoms, primarily dizziness, vertigo or a balance issue, are caused by an issue in the inner ear, they can be effectively treated. Vestibular tests are typically performed by otolaryngologists or audiologists.
Are there any vestibular abnormalities in the VEMP?
VEMP abnormalities vary with vestibular pathology. Abnormally increased amplitude and reduced thresholds have been reported in patients with superior canal dehiscence.
Can a VEMP be used to diagnose BPPV?
VEMPs are not currently useful in making a diagnosis of BPPV. Vestibular Migraine. Some patients with vestibular migraine have been shown to have absent or reduced amplitude VEMPS in either one or both ears; however, currently VEMPS cannot be used to aid in the diagnosis of vestibular migraine.
What are side to side differences in VEMP amplitude?
Side-to-side differences in VEMP amplitude (A) are often expressed as an asymmetry ratio calculated as: where AL equals the peak-to-peak amplitude (P1/N1) on the left side and AR equals the peak-to-peak amplitude on the right side. VEMP abnormalities vary with vestibular pathology.
What does an attenuated VEMP mean for a patient?
An attenuated or absent VEMP suggests saccular and/or inferior nerve involvement. Patients with reduced amplitude VEMPs may be candidates for vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), however, the efficacy of VRT for patients with otolithic disturbances has not been determined.