The effect of the Meniett device in patients with Meniere's disease: Long-term results

Objective: To review our long-term experience with the Meniett device in patients who failed medical management to analyze its efficacy in controlling vertigo and its impact on the functional level of the patient. Study Design: Retrospective case review with long-term follow-up of patients receiving the Meniett device at our institution between May 2002 and April 2005. Setting: Tertiary referral center. Patients: Patients who failed medical therapy for Meniere's disease and opted to receive the Meniett over chemical labyrinthectomy, surgical labyrinthectomy, endolymphatic shunt surgery, or vestibular nerve section. Intervention: The Meniett is a small, portable, low-pressure pulse generator meant to be self-administered, requiring 5-minute sessions 3 times a day. Main Outcome Measure: Patient's current perception of usefulness of Meniett device for controlling vertigo and current level of Meniett treatment. Results: Of 14 patients meeting the study criteria, 12 were able to be contacted, giving an average follow-up of 4 years. Three patients (25%) showed no benefit, 9 patients (75%) did respond to the Meniett and thought it had reduced the frequency and severity of their vertigo attacks. Seven patients (58%) continued to use the device on a daily basis; the other 2 patients (17%) went into remission 2 and 3 years after initiating treatment. Conclusion: The Meniett device is a minimally invasive, non-destructive treatment that may be used to provide longer-term reduction of vestibular symptoms in patients with Meniere's disease.