Background: Effects of high Gz acceleration can threaten flight safety through loss of consciousness or a lesser-known phenomenon, G-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 Gz for 10 s. Measurements were made before and after G 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 Gz exposure.
Conclusion: It appears +9 Gz 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.