Whiplash With Vestibular Involvement

The otolaryngologist is consulted in many cases of head injury and whiplash whether or not we like it, our concepts are preconceived, our knowledge and understanding is current, or will properly study and evaluate such problems. It, therefore, behooves all of us to focus on audiovestibular sequelae of head injury and whiplash. Intellectual theorizations with regard to what results from head injury or whiplash, or both, are fine for philosophical discussions. Audiovestibular sequelae, however, do occur, and those who have studied such patients carefully have daily confirmation. It is not sufficient to take a superficial history and combine this with a look in the ears. Confirmation or denial of such sequelae can only occur when careful histories are taken, complete neurotologic physical examinations are performed, and careful radiographic, audiologic, and vestibular function testing is done.