Laser labyrinthectomy in humans.

This paper describes the feasibility of labyrinthectomy of only the vestibular part using argon laser in humans. In animal experiments, the utricular and saccular maculae were completely destroyed using argon laser with the otoprobe of the HGM system via the oval window, following stapedectomy. The human utricular and saccular maculae can be approached in a similar manner. Several approaches to the nerves and ampullae of the anterior and lateral semicircular canals are discussed. The most appropriate method to abolish the function of the ampullae is to sever the ampullary nerves. This can be done through the widened oval window with the argon laser otoprobe. After laser application, the oval window is covered by a piece of perichondrium. A stapes prosthesis is placed on the long process of the incus. Laser singular neurectomy may be used to sever the nerve to the posterior ampulla.