[Round window microcatheter administered microdose of gentamycin: an alternative in the treatment of tinnitus in patients with Menière's disease].

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

In this study, we review the results of Menière's disease treatment using microdose gentamycin delivered directly to the round window using a new microcatheter system.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

11 patients were treated by 1.25 mg gentamycin on the 3rd and 7th day after insertion of the new microcatheter at the niche of the round window membrane, while a second group of 7 patients was treated by a gentamycin dosage of 1 microliter/h continuously applied by a minipump over a period of 10 days. Electrocochleography was derived by an integrated electrode and the microcatheter was removed after 10 days. The results were analysed with a follow-up ranging from 6 to 12 months.

RESULTS:

In 15 of 18 patients (83%) tinnitus was improved significantly throughout the follow-up period. Vertigo was eliminated in all patients, and pressure was relieved in 17 of 18 (94%).

CONCLUSIONS:

These preliminary data suggest that gentamycin delivered by the Round-Window-Microcatheter is a safe and effective treatment for the reduction of tinnitus, vertigo, and pressure associated with Menière's disease.

• Authors: S Marks, I K Arenberg, M E Hoffer
• Journal: Laryngo- rhino- otologie (Laryngorhinootologie) Vol. 79 Issue 6 Pg. 327-31 (Jun 2000) ISSN: 0935-8943 [Print] Germany
• Vernacular Title: Round-Window-Mikrokatheterassistierte Mikrodosierung von Gentamycin: Alternative in der Behandlung des Tinnitus bei Patienten mit Morbus Menière.
• PMID: 10923311 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Gentamicins

Topics

• Audiometry, Evoked Response
• Catheterization
• Follow-Up Studies
• Gentamicins (administration & dosage)
• Humans
• Infusion Pumps
• Meniere Disease (complications, drug therapy)
• Round Window, Ear
• Time Factors
• Tinnitus (drug therapy, etiology)