Published online by Cambridge University Press: 27 May 2011
One hundred and seventy-two patients with Menière's disease (including tinnitus) who underwent endolymphatic system (ELS) surgery for vertigo and/or hearing loss, were evaluated to determine whether ELS surgery had an incidental effect on tinnitus. Tinnitus was eliminated in 34 patients (19.9 per cent), reduced in 64 patients (37.2 per cent), unchanged in 39 patients (22.6 per cent), and worse in 35 patients (20.3 per cent). No significant correlation existed between surgical results for hearing and an improvement in tinnitus. A successful elimination of vertigo, however, was associated with better results for tinnitus relief. Tinnitus is not considered to be an indication for ELS surgery.