Videonystagmography, the test that analyzes eye movement

The vestibulo-ocular reflex is responsible for stabilizing the images on the retina when we move our head to one side, but our eyes move to the other. Everyday actions such as reading a sign from a car are those that allow us this reflex of great importance for the stabilization of our vision. This reflex is responsible for the involuntary eye movement called “nystagmus” when we have vertigo.

What does videonystagmography consist of?

Videonystagmography consists of obtaining a graph of the eye movement (nystagmus) by means of a video camera, placed over the eyes, from goggles similar to diving goggles. From this study we obtain the necessary information to assess the function of each of the labyrinths and make a diagnosis.

In a videonystagmographic study, different calibration tests are performed:

– Saccade or tracking test: It consists of following with the eyes a point on a screen, performing it with one eye uncovered.
– Decubitus test: The patient lies on his back, on the right side and on the left side, recording the eye movements of these positions and the changes that occur on the nystagmus. In this case, both eyes should be covered.
– Caloric test (Dix-Hallpike): It consists of stimulating the labyrinth to provoke a reaction and record it, checking if it is normal and equal on both sides.

The patient does not need any preparation for the test. It is recommended that the patient does not take any medication for vertigo during the days prior to the test. It is also recommended that the patient be accompanied because he/she may become dizzy during the test.

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It is very unlikely that patients who undergo the operation will experience any pain or discomfort in their ears, since they are not touched except during caloric stimulation. In caloric stimulation, the labyrinth is stimulated by irrigation of water at different temperatures (air can also be used) through a soft tube.