POSTOPERATIVE RECURRENCE OF PERILYMPHATIC FISTULAS

Postoperative follow-up study of perilymphatic fistulas (PLFs) showed that recurrence of PLF was not rare and revision was sometimes needed to relieve the symptoms associated with leakage of perilymph. Of the 5 4 PLF patients surgically treated in our clinic, some sign or symptom of recurrence was found in 9 cases (17%). Vertigo accompanied by spont aneous or positional nystagmus was noted in all 9 cases, while only 3 complained of exacerbation of the existing hearing loss. Revision was indicated in 3 patients since they had no predisposition to spontaneou s healing. Various etiological and underlying factors contributed to t he incidence of recurrence. Careful operative procedures together with strict postoperative management are required for surgical treatment o f PLF.