Objective: To evaluate the prognostic factors in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) treated with canalith repositioning procedures (CRPs).

Material and methods: Retrospective study of consecutive BPPV cases diagnosed over three years. All patients underwent a complete otolaryngologic, audiologic and neurotologic evaluation. The appropriate CRP was performed, depending on the type of BPPV. Prognostic factors studied included age, sex, aetiology, duration of disease, abnormal electronystagmographic findings, canal involvement, improper performance of manoeuvres, response on first or repeat treatment, and presence of recurrences.

Results: One hundred and fifty-five patients were studied, 66 men and 89 women, with mean ages of 58.7 and 60.4 years, respectively. Age and the involvement of two canals or bilateral disease had an effect on initial treatment outcome and were correlated to increased recurrences but not to repeat treatment outcome. Secondary BPPV, abnormal electronystagmographic findings and improper performance of manoeuvres had a significant effect both on initial and repeat treatment, but not on recurrences. Sex and duration of symptoms had no effect.

Conclusion: Canalith repositioning procedures provide fast and long-lasting treatment of BPPV in most patients. However, in a small subgroup of patients, failures may be noticed that may be attributed to various prognostic factors.