Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials

VEMP testing of the otolith organs

Overview

Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials are muscle responses recorded with surface electrodes after loud sounds or vibration stimulate the otolith organs. The cervical VEMP, measured from the sternocleidomastoid muscle in the neck, mainly reflects the saccule, while the ocular VEMP, measured beneath the eyes, mainly reflects the utricle. Together with caloric and head impulse testing they let clinicians assess the different parts of the vestibular system separately. Abnormally large or low threshold responses are a characteristic finding in superior canal dehiscence.