Ear, Nose and Throat

ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgery, also known as Otolaryngology surgery, is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. This comprehensive rundown will provide an overview of the various aspects and procedures involved in ENT surgery.

ENT surgery covers a broad range of conditions, including chronic ear infections, hearing loss, sinus problems, deviated septum, tonsil and adenoid issues, vocal cord disorders, and various head and neck tumors. It aims to alleviate symptoms, improve function, and enhance the quality of life for patients experiencing these conditions.

One common procedure in ENT surgery is tonsillectomy, which involves the removal of the tonsils. Tonsils are two masses of tissue located at the back of the throat that can become infected or enlarged, causing issues such as recurrent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and obstructed breathing. Tonsillectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the tonsils are removed through the mouth using specialized surgical instruments.

Adenoidectomy is another procedure performed in ENT surgery, involving the removal of the adenoids. Adenoids are similar to tonsils but are located higher up in the throat, behind the nose. Enlarged or infected adenoids can cause nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and recurrent ear infections. Adenoidectomy is usually performed in combination with tonsillectomy or as a separate procedure.

Another common area of focus in ENT surgery is the management of sinus conditions. Chronic sinusitis, sinus polyps, and structural issues within the nose can lead to recurrent sinus infections, facial pain, and difficulty breathing. Endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to visualize and treat sinus conditions. It involves removing obstructions, opening blocked sinus passages, and promoting proper drainage.

In cases of nasal obstruction caused by a deviated septum, septoplasty may be recommended. The septum is the wall of bone and cartilage that separates the two sides of the nose. A deviated septum can cause nasal congestion, breathing difficulties, and recurrent sinus infections. Septoplasty involves straightening the septum by removing or repositioning the obstructing tissues to improve nasal airflow and alleviate symptoms.

ENT surgery also addresses conditions affecting the ears, such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss, and abnormalities of the middle and inner ear. Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to repair the eardrum, middle ear bones (ossicles), or both. It is used to treat chronic ear infections, restore hearing, and prevent further damage to the ear structures. Cochlear implantation, on the other hand, is a complex procedure for individuals with severe hearing loss or deafness. It involves surgically implanting a device that stimulates the auditory nerve, allowing the patient to perceive sound.

In addition to these procedures, ENT surgery encompasses the diagnosis and management of head and neck tumors, including those affecting the thyroid, salivary glands, and vocal cords. Surgical removal of tumors may be necessary, and in some cases, reconstructive surgery may be performed to restore function and aesthetics.

ENT surgeons employ various surgical techniques, including both traditional open surgery and minimally invasive approaches. Minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic procedures, offer advantages such as smaller incisions, reduced scarring, faster recovery times, and decreased post-operative pain.