Fistula Test

Why?

This test will be performed if you have a history of giddiness and where erosion of the bony labyrinth (inner ear) is clinically suspected perhaps due to infection, cholesteatoma or a tumour. Sometimes a fistula may be suspected when the patient reports dizziness during initial tympanometry.

How?

The Vestibular Scientist will alter the pressure in the ear canal either by pushing on the tragus, which is the soft cartilage flap just in front of the external ear canal, creating a repetitive pumping action or by using a pneumatic otoscope. The test is positive if you develop vertigo or nystagmus. Sometimes the test is carried out using VNG goggles to obtain a digital computer record of the induced nystagmus.