Abstract: Objective To investigate the short-term and long-term effects of endolymphatic sac decompression with instillation of local steroids for intractable Meniere's disease. Methods Twenty-three patients who underwent surgery for intractable Meniere's disease were enrolled. The surgical strategy included traditional endolymphatic sac decompression, opening of the facial recess, placement of gelatin sponge around the round window, and injection of steroids into the tympanic cavity and onto the surface of the endolymphatic sac. Frequency of vertigo episodes and hearing function(pure tone averages)were compared before surgery, 6~12 months after surgery, and 18~24 months after surgery. Results Twenty-three patients completed the short-term effect evaluation at 12 months after surgery. The frequency of vertigo episodes decreased from(5.7±5.9)to(0.4±1.0)times. The vertigo control rate was 87.0%, while the hearing maintenance rate was 95.7%. Thirteen patients completed the long-term effect evaluation at 24 months after surgery. The frequency of vertigo episodes decreased from(4.2±2.6)to(0.1±0.3)times. The vertigo control rate was 92.3%, while the hearing maintenance rate was 100%. Conclusion Endolymphatic sac decompression with instillation of local steroids for the treatment of intractable Meniere's disease had favorable effects on vertigo control and the maintenance of hearing function.

Key words: Meniere's disease, Endolymphatic sac decompression, Intratympanic injection of steroids, Vertigo, Hearing loss