Objective: To calculate and compare the change of canal paresis (CP) and directional preponderance (DP) before and after changing air flow rate of testing ear, and to discuss the influence of air flow rate change of single ear on the final result of caloric test.
Method: The CPs and DPs were calculated when the caloric tests were carried out with the air flow rate 6 L/min in both ears as symmetry stimulation, and with the air flow rate 6 L/min in left ear and 3 L/min in right ear as asymmetric stimulation. Paired T test was used in analysis between symmetry and asymmetric group.
Result: CPs and DPs declined significant in asymmetric group, and the difference was statistically significant.
Conclusion: When air flow rate declined, CP was to the same side, while DP was to opposite side. There might be false positive or negative result.