Update on intratympanic gentamicin for Meniere's disease.

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature relating to intratympanic gentamicin injection therapy for Meniere's disease to detect consistencies and differences that might suggest optimal technique.

DESIGN

Retrospective literature review.

METHODS

Eighteen papers from the literature regarding clinical experience with intratympanic gentamicin injections for treatment of Meniere's disease were reviewed and tabulated.

RESULTS

All papers reported high success rates in treating episodic vertigo of Meniere's disease, but technique, dose, duration, and treatment philosophy varied considerably. Hearing loss was typically reported in about 30% of patients.

CONCLUSION

No single technique of gentamicin injection has a significant medical advantage over the others. Until controlled studies indicate otherwise, nonmedical needs such as convenience and safety may be considered when choosing a technique.