What is Videonystagmography (VNG)?
Videonystagmography (VNG) is a diagnostic test that evaluates involuntary eye movements known as nystagmus. By analyzing these eye movements' speed, steadiness, and patterns, practitioners gain critical insights into potential vestibular disorders, such as dizziness and vertigo.
VNG testing is a comprehensive assessment that not only delves into the peripheral vestibular systems within the inner ear but also scrutinizes the central motor functions of eye movement. This examination involves specialized VNG goggles with infrared cameras to track and record eye movements.
Benefits of VNG Testing
Videonystagmography (VNG) offers numerous benefits, including:
- High-resolution VNG goggles detect subtle eye movements missed in bedside evaluations, pinpointing symptoms' sensory, motor, or neural origins.
- VNG testing assesses sensory input integration, guiding targeted interventions like vestibular rehab, improving diagnosis, and personalizing care for vestibular disorder patients.
Performing a VNG Test
A VNG test is typically conducted in a darkened room using specialized equipment:
- VNG goggles with integrated cameras
- A display screen for visualizing eye movements
- A computer with software for recording and analyzing test results
There are four primary components of a VNG test:
- Ocular Mobility: This phase assesses a patient's ability to track visual targets, like a moving light. Tracking difficulties could indicate neurological or vestibular issues.
- Optokinetic Nystagmus: Patients watch a continuously moving image, helping practitioners assess their ability to follow visual stimuli. Abnormal responses can provide clues to underlying issues.
- Positional Testing: Practitioners manipulate the patient's head and body into various positions, using techniques like the Epley and Dix-Hallpike maneuvers. These tests can reveal the movements that trigger nystagmus.
- Caloric Testing: Warm and cool air or water is introduced into the patient's ears. The eyes' response to these temperature changes can indicate inner ear nerve damage.
Disorders Diagnosed Through VNG Testing
VNG testing is instrumental in identifying various vestibular disorders, including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): BPPV is characterized by brief, intense bouts of dizziness triggered by head position changes.
- Meniere's Disease: A debilitating condition causing dizziness, hearing loss, and tinnitus, often affecting one ear.
- Labyrinthitis: This disorder leads to vertigo and imbalance due to inner ear infection or swelling.
Selecting VNG Equipment
Selecting the right VNG equipment is paramount for successful VNG testing. High-quality VNG systems ensure precise and reliable results. e3 Diagnostics offers a range of VNG systems and vestibular assessment instruments designed to support your diagnostic needs.
Videonystagmography (VNG) testing is a powerful tool in diagnosing vestibular disorders, shedding light on the root causes of balance-related issues. Balance professionals rely on VNG testing to provide accurate assessments and personalized treatment plans, helping patients regain their equilibrium and quality of life.
Would you like to expand your knowledge about VNG equipment? Our experts are here to assist you.
Contact Local Office
Learn more about key VNG equipment
VisualEyes™ 505 VNG Goggles
VisualEyes™ 525 VNG Goggles
VisualEyes™ EyeSeeCam
Other Good Reads: A Simple Explanation of VNG Testing for Patients
Follow us on Social!
If you haven't already, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to keep up-to-date with our latest resources and product information.