What is Otolaryngology?
Otolaryngology is a medical specialty which is focused on the ears, nose, and throat. It is also called otolaryngology-head and neck surgery because specialists are trained in both medicine and surgery. An otolaryngologist is often called an ear, nose, and throat doctor, or an ENT for short.
This medical specialty dates back to the 19th century, when doctors recognized that the head and neck contained a series of interconnected systems. Doctors developed techniques and tools for examining and treating problems of the head and neck, eventually forming a medical specialty. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, it is the oldest medical specialty in the United States.
Otolaryngologists differ from many physicians in that they are qualified to perform many types of surgery on the delicate and complex tissues of the head and neck.
Otolaryngology (ENT) —Head and Neck Surgery Department
We have highly skilled doctors who are specialized in disorders and diseases of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck. Our department is well-equipped to diagnose, treat and manage acute or chronic conditions including infectious diseases, congenital and developmental disorders, cancer, trauma and allergic disorders for both children and adults. Our skilled and dedicated doctors work in collaboration with neurosurgeons, pulmonologists, oncosurgeons, and cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons to provide comprehensive care to our patients.
Audiology & Cochlear Implant
Our otolaryngologists, audiologists, and ENT team members work hard to ensure the best care for both adults and children. If you are experiencing hearing disorders, our team can diagnose the cause of your condition and provide the treatment that will result in the best possible outcome.
We are treating the full spectrum of hearing disorders through the use of advanced technology. Our expert team of audiologists and other ENT specialists uses sophisticated diagnostic techniques to evaluate patients before developing individualized treatment plans. Treatments can include the use of advanced hearing aid technology as well as cochlear implants to restore hearing.
If you would like more information on cochlear implants, or if you wish to refer a patient, please contact us.
What do otolaryngologists treat?
- Ear: Otolaryngologists are trained in the medical and surgical treatment of hearing loss, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain, and facial and cranial nerve disorders. They also manage congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear.
- Nose: Care of the nasal cavity and sinuses is one of the primary skills of otolaryngologists. Otolaryngologists diagnose, manage and treat allergies, sinusitis, smell disorders, polyps, and nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum. They can also correct the appearance of the nose (rhinoplasty surgery).
- Throat: Otolaryngologists have expertise in managing diseases of the larynx (voice box) and the upper aero-digestive tract or esophagus, including voice and swallowing disorders.
- Head and Neck: In the head and neck area, otolaryngologists are trained to treat infectious diseases, both benign and malignant (cancerous) tumors, facial trauma, and deformities of the face. They perform both cosmetic plastic and reconstructive surgery.
