Vestibular Function in Military Pilots Before and After 10 s at +9 Gz on a Centrifuge.

Background: Effects of high G acceleration can threaten flight safety through loss of consciousness or a lesser-known phenomenon, C-induced vestibular dysfunction (GIVD). There are reports of GIVD following high-G flight or centrifuge exposure. The aim of this study was to explore this problem under controlled conditions using a human centrifuge. Methods: There were 11 pilots who were exposed to +9 G_z, for 10 s. Measurements were made before and after C exposure to assess vestibular function, including spontaneous nystagmus, positioning nystagmus, optokinetic nystagmus, vestibular ocular reflex, vestibular-vision interaction, subjective vision vertical perception, and vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials. Results: No significant change was found for vestibular function after the G_z, exposure. Conclusion: It appears +9 G_z for 10 s does not produce GIVD. However, the possible effects of prolonged high G maneuvers in modern aircraft combined with head movements may warrant further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]