Videonystagmography (VNG) is a diagnostic test that measures involuntary eye movements called nystagmus. Nystagmus is a condition in which the eyes make repetitive, uncontrolled movements. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including inner ear problems, neurological disorders, and medications.
VNG testing can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
- Meniere's disease
- Labyrinthitis
- Vestibular neuritis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Brain tumors
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Cerebrovascular accident (stroke)
VNG testing is a safe and painless procedure. It is typically performed in a doctor's office or a clinic. The test takes about 30 minutes to complete.
During VNG testing, you will be asked to sit in a chair with your head in a fixed position. Electrodes will be placed on your eyes to measure eye movements. You will then be asked to follow a series of visual targets. The technician will also move your head in different positions to see how your eyes move.
After the test, the technician will review the data and provide you with a diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with a vestibular disorder, the technician may recommend treatment options, such as vestibular rehabilitation therapy or medication.
How VNG Testing Works
VNG testing works by measuring the speed and direction of eye movements. The technician will use a computer to record your eye movements and then analyze the data to look for any abnormalities.
There are three main types of nystagmus that can be detected with VNG testing:
- Saccadic nystagmus: This is a rapid, jerky eye movement that occurs when you quickly change your gaze from one object to another.
- Pendular nystagmus: This is a slow, rhythmic eye movement that occurs in the same direction in both eyes.
- Optokinetic nystagmus: This is a type of nystagmus that is caused by looking at a moving object.
The presence of nystagmus can be a sign of a vestibular disorder. However, it is important to note that nystagmus can also be caused by other conditions, such as fatigue, stress, and certain medications.
What to Expect During VNG Testing
VNG testing is a safe and painless procedure. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before and after the test:
- You should not drive or operate machinery after the test, as you may experience dizziness.
- If you have any questions or concerns about VNG testing, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Benefits of VNG Testing
VNG testing is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help your doctor diagnose a variety of vestibular disorders. The test is safe, painless, and relatively quick to perform. VNG testing can also help your doctor monitor the progress of your condition and track the effectiveness of treatment.
If you are experiencing dizziness or vertigo, talk to your doctor about VNG testing. This test may help your doctor diagnose the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that can help you get relief.
Other Vestibular Function Tests:
In addition to VNG testing, your doctor may also order other tests to help diagnose the cause of your dizziness or vertigo. These tests may include:
- Caloric testing: This test is used to measure the function of the vestibular system. Warm and cool water or air are placed in each ear to see how the eyes move.
- Evoked potentials: This test measures the electrical activity of the brain in response to visual and auditory stimuli. It can be used to detect damage to the central nervous system (CNS).
- CT scan: This test uses X-rays to create detailed images of the brain and skull. It can be used to look for injuries to the brain or skull.
- MRI scan: This test uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain and other organs. It can be used to look for injuries to the brain, tumors, and other conditions.
Benefits of VNG Testing
VNG testing is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help your doctor diagnose a variety of vestibular disorders. The test is safe, painless, and relatively quick to perform. VNG testing can also help your doctor monitor the progress of your condition and track the effectiveness of treatment.
If you are experiencing dizziness or vertigo, talk to your doctor about VNG testing. This test may help your doctor diagnose the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that can help you get relief.
If you’re a practitioner looking into adding VNG equipment to your practice, choosing the right VNG System for you and your patients is an important decision.
There are a variety of VNG systems available on the market. When choosing a VNG system, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The type of vestibular disorders you are interested in diagnosing
- The age and size of your patients
- The features and capabilities of the system
- The cost of the system
e3 Diagnostics offers a wide variety of VNG systems, as well as other instruments used in vestibular assessment. Our systems are designed to meet the needs of a variety of clinicians, from small private practices to large academic medical centers. We also offer a variety of financing options to make it easy for you to get the VNG system you need.
If you are interested in learning more about our VNG systems, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you choose the right system for your practice.
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