Two cases of recurred vertigo following perilymphatic oval window fistula repair

The traumatic perilymphatic fistula (PLF) can cause hearing loss and disabling dizziness. These symptoms can be recovered spontaneously or by surgical repair. However, even after surgical PLF repair, patients may suffer from recurrent vestibular symptoms. The mechanism of recurrent symptoms is not clear. We experienced two patients who complained of recurrent vertigo long after surgical PLF repair. Both patients had severe sensorineural hearing loss and vestibular loss after head trauma. In both cases, after surgical repair, dizziness was completely subsided. However, several years later, the disabling vertigo recurred in both cases. The symptoms aggravated when position was changed. On the fistula test, the patients showed positive results. Surgical findings showed a fibrous band connection between the stapes and the tympanic membrane. After stapedectomy, the symptoms subsided. We discuss the two cases in regards to the possible mechanism of recurrent vertigo after surgical PLF repair.