Investigation of the relationship between severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss and vestibulo-ocular reflex using objective vestibular tests

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between unilateral idiopathic severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss and vestibular-ocular reflex (VOR). DESIGN: This study used a descriptive cross-sectional research design to examine the relationship between unilateral idiopathic severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss and the vestibulo-ocular reflex. STUDY SAMPLE: The study included 76 participants (42 women, 34 men) aged 18-50, comprising individuals with unilateral idiopathic severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss and healthy controls. All completed a Demographic Data Form and underwent v-HIT and f-HIT assessments. RESULTS: and in overall percentage of correct answers (%CA) (p < 0.05). The v-HIT showed significant group differences in VOR gain values for all SCCs and in asymmetry between case and control groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A decrease in the gain and functionality of the vestibulo-ocular reflex has been observed in individuals with unilateral idiopathic severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss. İnvolvement of the vestibulo-ocular reflex pathway has also been noted on the side without hearing loss.