New insights in diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers for BPPV

The inner ear is involved in balance control of the body. Diseases of the inner ear can lead to imbalance and dizziness. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of dizziness. It occurs due to inner ear crystals being displaced into a wrong position. When there is head movement, these displaced crystals may stimulate the balance nerve causing the patient to feel dizzy. This is why patients suffering from BPPV typically feel a spinning sensation on turning in bed or bending down. This thesis describes a software simulation tool to help clinicians understand BPPV through 3-dimensional visualization of the inner ear along with the movement of the crystals during head movement. The simulations have helped in improving BPPV diagnosis and treatment protocols. The thesis also describes a guidance system developed to help clinicians treat BPPV patients more accurately.