Videonystagmography (VNG)
Reviewed
Also called: VNG, Videonystagmography
Videonystagmography (VNG) is a test that measures a type of eye movement that you can't control.
Specimen: Not applicable (procedure measures eye movements using goggles with a camera).
Why this test may be ordered
- To find out if you have a disorder of the vestibular system (the balance system in your inner ear).
- To help find problems with the nerves or parts of your brain that are part of your sense of balance.
- If you have symptoms of a vestibular disorder, such as dizziness, vertigo, feeling as if you're going to fall, feeling lightheaded, ringing in your ears, or feeling of fullness or pressure in your ear.
Preparation and collection
Your provider will let you know how to prepare for your test. You may need to avoid certain foods or medicines before your test. But don't stop taking any medicine without talking with your provider first.
During a VNG test, you'll sit in a dark room wearing special goggles. A camera in the goggles will record your eye movements during these three main parts of the test.
The test may make you feel dizzy for a few minutes. You may want to plan to have someone bring you home in case the dizziness lasts longer. Some people have nausea for a short time during caloric testing, but vomiting is uncommon.
Understanding results
Your provider can explain what type of disorder you may have.
- Normal: Normally, nystagmus happens briefly as your eyes adjust when you move your head into certain positions. This is a sign that your vestibular system is working correctly. Limitation: If nystagmus happens at other times or doesn't happen when it should, your vestibular system may not be working properly. Next step: If you have questions about your results or treatment, talk with your provider.
- Not normal: If your VNG results were not normal, it may mean you have a disorder of the vestibular system in your inner ear. The disorder may be in one or both ears. Limitation: An abnormal VNG result may also mean you have a condition that affects the parts of your brain that help control your balance. Next step: You may need more tests, including other balance tests, to confirm your diagnosis.
- The test may make you feel dizzy for a few minutes.
- Some people have nausea for a short time during caloric testing, but vomiting is uncommon.
- You may want to plan to have someone bring you home in case the dizziness lasts longer.
What to do next
Treatment options depend on the type of balance disorder you have. If you have questions about your results or treatment, talk with your provider.
- What type of vestibular disorder might my results indicate?
- Do I need additional balance tests to confirm the diagnosis?
- What treatment options are available for my specific condition?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.
U.S. National Library of Medicine: Videonystagmography (VNG)