The effect of the Meniett device in patients with Ménière's disease: long-term results.

OBJECTIVE

To review our long-term experience with the Meniett device in patients who failed medical management to analyze its efficacy in controlling vertigo and its impact on the functional level of the patient.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case review with long-term follow-up of patients receiving the Meniett device at our institution between May 2002 and April 2005.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS

Patients who failed medical therapy for Ménière's disease and opted to receive the Meniett over chemical labyrinthectomy, surgical labyrinthectomy, endolymphatic shunt surgery, or vestibular nerve section.

INTERVENTION

The Meniett is a small, portable, low-pressure pulse generator meant to be self-administered, requiring 5-minute sessions 3 times a day.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Patient's current perception of usefulness of Meniett device for controlling vertigo and current level of Meniett treatment.

RESULTS

Of 14 patients meeting the study criteria, 12 were able to be contacted, giving an average follow-up of 4 years. Three patients (25%) showed no benefit; 9 patients (75%) did respond to the Meniett and thought it had reduced the frequency and severity of their vertigo attacks. Seven patients (58%) continued to use the device on a daily basis; the other 2 patients (17%) went into remission 2 and 3 years after initiating treatment.

CONCLUSION

The Meniett device is a minimally invasive, nondestructive treatment that may be used to provide longer-term reduction of vestibular symptoms in patients with Ménière's disease.