A patient with superior semicircular canal dehiscence presenting with Tullio's phenomenon: a case report

J Med Case Rep. 2009 Jan 23:3:22. doi: 10.1186/1752-1947-3-22.

Abstract

Introduction: Superior semicircular canal dehiscence represents a manageable cause of sound and pressure induced vertigo. This case highlights its presentation and investigation, including a review of the literature, and the authors' surgical technique used in its successful treatment.

Case presentation: A 45-year-old Caucasian man presented with vertigo induced by sound or pressure. Subsequent investigation revealed dehiscence of the superior semicircular canal and the patient underwent a surgical repair.

Conclusion: Surgery to repair or resurface the dehiscence represents an effective treatment modality, offering a resolution of symptoms with no detrimental effect on hearing or long-term sequelae. A five-layer composite repair consisting of temporalis fascia - bone pate - conchal cartilage - bone pate - temporalis fascia has been found to be safe and effective.