Ear, Nose & Throat

The otolaryngology department is staffed by physicians specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the ear, nose and throat. These doctors have a unique educational background of medical and surgical skills. They are not only able to simply explain to parents how a hearing loss can affect their child's learning of language, but also perform intricate surgery on little ears to reduce the amount of hearing loss.

The otolaryngologists, ENTs (ear, nose and throat specialists), are interested in problems of the ears, such as hearing loss, dizziness, ringing (tinnitus) and earaches. Working with the audiology staff, hearing tests and balance function testing are important parts of the comprehensive otology (ear) evaluation.

Evaluation and treatment of the problems of the throat and larynx are also an important part of the otolaryngologists' practice. They are able to evaluate voice disorders, swallowing disorders, snoring and sleep apnea, the temporary stopping of breathing.

Recent advances in laser technology and laser surgery have made surgical treatment of these problems quite treatable with little pain and excellent results. In conjunction with the Sleep Center and pulmonology department, simple testing can be conducted to evaluate snoring problems so the laser surgery can be performed with maximum success.

Cancer of the neck and mouth are quite common and are first identified by the patient as a lump or inflammation. Accurate diagnosis and removal of these lumps or lesions is important to our patient's health and treatment. Otolaryngologists also work with the Nicotine Dependency Center to help patients reduce or eliminate the nicotine habit.

Sinus infections related to allergies, or chronic problems such as growths, can be very uncomfortable and troublesome. By using a tiny microscope mounted on a thin piece of tubing, called an endoscope, the doctors can show the patients the cause of the irritation and successfully remove much of the discomfort and growth.

The otolaryngology department provides a wide range of diagnostic and treatment services of the ear, nose and throat in an ultra-modern area with its own minor surgical suite and patient education center.