ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec. 1993 May-Jun; 55(3): 140-2.

Vertigo as manifestation of vertebral artery dissection after chiropractic neck manipulations.

Vibert D, Rohr-Le Floch J, Gauthier G.

Department of Otolaryngology, Neurotology Unit, Cantonal University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland.

We recently observed a case of vertebral artery (VA) dissection following chiropractic neck manipulations. The first manifestation was unusual; in the form of vertigo. Therefore, the patient was referred to the otoneurologist. A VA dissection should be suspected in a case of vertigo following chiropractic neck manipulations, and vestibular tests should be done carefully, avoiding Rose's positions. In our case, the diagnosis was based on Doppler sonography and angiography. Chiropractic neck manipulations are the most frequent cause of traumatic VA dissection. Practitioners should be aware that, in some cases, these manoeuvres are life threatening.