Vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials before and after dental implant surgery.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine the effects of dental implant surgery on vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) responses. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between October 2012 and October 2014, a total of 60 consecutive patients undergoing dental implant surgery at Baskent University Hospital, Department of Otorhinolaryngology were included in the study. The control group consisted of 40 healthy subjects undergoing routine clinical examination. The VEMP response was evaluated at baseline, second and seventh days. Positional tests and Dix-Hallpike testing for vertigo were performed at baseline, second and seventh days. RESULTS: Hundred-eight dental implants were placed in 60 patients. There was no significant difference in the p1 and n1 latencies in the control group at baseline, second day, and seventh day (p>0.05). However, there was a significant increase at the second day for p1 latencies in the study group, compared to the baseline and seventh day (p=0.038). There was a significant increase at the second day for n1 compared to the baseline (p=0.016) and seventh day in the study group (p=0.005). There was a significant increase at the seventh day for n1 compared to the baseline in the study group (p=0.016). CONCLUSION: The present study revealed a significant difference in the cervical VEMP response on the second postoperative day for p1 and n1 latencies compared to the baseline and seventh postoperative day in dental implantation patients. Dental implant patients should be informed of such possible temporary problems as dizziness and vestibular problems.