CVT Vestibular System Anatomy & Physiology Techniques 3

Question 1

The posterior semicircular canal is most sensitive to head movements in which plane?

Accepted Answer

Sagittal (pitch) plane

Answer

The posterior semicircular canal lies in a plane roughly parallel to the sagittal plane and responds primarily to pitch (nodding) head movements.

Question 2

Which of the four vestibular nuclei is primarily involved in the vestibuloспinal reflex controlling trunk and limb muscles?

Accepted Answer

Lateral vestibular nucleus (Deiters)

Answer

The lateral vestibular nucleus (Deiters' nucleus) gives rise to the lateral vestibulospinal tract, which facilitates ipsilateral extensor muscles for postural stability.

Question 3

Otoconia are primarily composed of:

Accepted Answer

Calcium carbonate (calcite) crystals in a glycoprotein gel

Answer

Otoconia are dense calcium carbonate crystals embedded in a gelatinous glycoprotein matrix (otolithic membrane) overlying the macula.

Question 4

The medial vestibulospinal tract primarily coordinates:

Accepted Answer

Neck and upper limb muscles for head stabilization

Answer

The medial vestibulospinal tract descends in the MLF to cervical and upper thoracic levels, coordinating neck and upper limb muscles to stabilize the head.

Question 5

In BPPV of the posterior canal, the Dix-Hallpike maneuver typically elicits nystagmus that is:

Accepted Answer

Torsional-upbeat, geotropic, and fatigable

Answer

Posterior canal BPPV produces torsional-upbeat (geotropic top pole beating toward affected ear) nystagmus that is fatigable with repeated testing due to canalith repositioning.

(CVT) Certified Vestibular Therapist Practice Test

(CVT) Certified Vestibular Therapist Practice Test

CVT Vestibular System Anatomy & Physiology Techniques 3