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VNG

VNG (Videonystagmography)

VNG instructions – https://neurocenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/VNG-Instructions.pdf

VNG Spanish instructions – https://neurocenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/VNG-Spanish-Instructions.pdf

VNG balance and equilibrium testing is a series of tests that significantly assist in diagnosing disorders and finding the cause of issues like dizziness. It provides an objective measure of the vestibular (balance) system consisting of 3 parts:

  1. Eye movements: you will watch a target light that is either stationary or in motion.
  2. Positionals: you will move through various head and body positions.
  3. Calorics: your ears will be warmed or cooled with 60 seconds of airflow into your ear canals. The third portion of the test may elicit a sensation of turning that lasts less than two minutes and subsides as the ear returns to your normal body temperature. The purpose of these procedures is to determine if any of them elicit nystagmus (rhythmic, involuntary eye movements).

During the VNG procedure, electrodes are positioned near the eyes to carefully monitor eye movements. For some of the test the patient will be seated, observing a light target whose movements are precisely planned and controlled to evoke normal or abnormal movements. The entire VNG test takes about 2 hours. Each portion of the examination contributes distinct, specific information to the overall picture, information often available through no other means.

How to prepare for a VNG

  • It is best NOT to eat a large meal before the test. Eating something light 2 hours before the test is permitted.
  • Alcohol and caffeine should NOT be taken for 48 hours prior to VNG test.
  • Do not wear any eye makeup. You will be required to remove ALL eye makeup.
  • No false eyelashes of any kind can be worn during testing.
  • It is very important that your ears be free and clear of wax or your appointment may need to be rescheduled. Over the counter ear cleaning kits from your pharmacy are suggested, no later than 2 days prior to testing.
  • Antihistamines, anti-dizziness, sedation, or pain medication should NOT be taken 48 hours prior to VNG testing.
  • Transderm Scopolamine patch must remain off for 72 hours prior to testing.
  • The following medications should NOT be taken for 48 hours prior to VNG testing:
    • Meclizine
    • Xanax
    • Dramamine
    • Temazepam
    • Oxazepam
    • Benadryl
    • Klonopin
    • Librium
    • Valium (Diazepam)
  • It is highly recommended that you have a driver available to take you home after the test.
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