The Tack Operation

The tack operation was done in 140 patients who had endolymphatic hydrops. Vertigo was successfully controlled in 82%. Of the first 50 patients operated on, in whom a tack with a head 0.1 mm thick was used, 84% have had satisfactory control of vertigo at the approximate five-year follow-up period. However, of the subsequent 90 patients operated on, in whom a tack with a head 0.4 mm thick was used, only 81% have had satisfactory control of vertigo. The difference in results probably was due to the tendency for perilymph fistula to develop when a thick-headed tack is employed.