TRIPLE SEMICIRCULAR CANAL OCCLUSION VERSUS LABYRINTHECTOMY IN THE CAT

Hypothesis: We have theorized that surgical occlusion of all three sem icircular canals (TCO) may be an effective means to treat vestibular p athology limited to semicircular canal dysfunction while preserving he aring and otolithic function. Background: A procedure that would elimi nate vertigo while preserving hearing and minimizing postoperative dys equilibrium would be desirable. Methods: Staged bilateral TCO was perf ormed on four cats and compared to staged bilateral labyrinthectomy in four cats. Balance and gait analysis were performed for 3 weeks after each surgical procedure-a total of 6 weeks of testing. Results: Balan ce testing, gait analysis, and righting reflex were found to be better among the cats undergoing TCO compared to labyrinthectomy. Conclusion s: Compared to labyrinthectomy in the cat, TCO appears to have advanta ges for vestibular compensation after unilateral and contralateral sur gery.