Prognostic factors in labyrinthectomy

Labyrinthectomy for unilateral Menière's disease may be complicated by persistent unsteadiness postoperatively. The aim of this study is to identify the unfavourable factors in recovery following labyrinthectomy. Twenty-one patients gave a detailed history and underwent neuro-otological, ophthalmic and cardiovascular examination, as well as psychological and psychiatric assessment. Sedentary occupations, external health locus of control, extraverted personality, and an anxious and/or depressed psychiatric state were associated with poor post-operative recovery. These factors therefore should be taken into consideration in the pre-operative assessment and post-operative rehabilitation of labyrinthectomy patients.