Subjective visual vertical in various vestibular disorders by using a simple bucket test

Abstract

Subjective Visual Vertical (S.V.V.) assesses the ability to perceive verticality which depends on visual, vestibular and somatosensory inputs. The judgment of verticality is altered when there is otolith dysfunction. Objective of our study was to present a simple method to assess S.V.V. and to analyze S.V.V. changes in various vestibular disorders. 100 subjects presenting with vestibular disorders in period of 1 year 2 months were subjected to Neurotological history and examination. Patients with non-vestibular causes were excluded. S.V.V was tested with a simple innovative device—a specially designed bucket. The angle of deviation from vertical was noted in degrees. Normal deviation is 0 ± 2°. Out of 23 patients with vestibular neuritis 83 % showed abnormal S.V.V. Amongst 11 patients of Meniere’s disease, 55 % and 42 patients of BPPV, 71 % had abnormal S.V.V. Amongst 24 patients with other causes 15 % showed abnormal S.V.V. S.V.V is a reliable screening tool in assessment of vestibular dysfunction along with other clinical tests. It has a prognostic value during recovery following vestibular damage. The modified ‘Bucket’ is a simple, easy to use and cost-effective device to do the S.V.V. in daily practice.