ENT examination

An Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) examination is a medical evaluation of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures in nose, throat, and the head and neck. The examination typically includes a thorough medical history, physical examination, and potentially diagnostic tests such as audiometry, nasal endoscopy, or Indirect laryngoscopy, posterior rhinoscopy, laryngoscopy, otoscopy etc.

For patient with hearing impairment, they may be subjected to audiometry,tympanometry, oto-acoustic emission, automated brainstem response, visual reinforcement audiometry, free field test and many more as required. Those needing hearing aid are fitted with one as per their hearing loss.

For some nasal condition nasal endoscopy procedure may be performed. Treatment options will depend on the underlying condition but may include medication, surgery, or other therapies.

For throat, voice disorder, balance disorder and head /neck condition, allergic conditions,and suspected cancer cases, following history taking, patient may be subjected to batteries of tests such as lab investigations, nasopharyngeal laryngoscopy, Direct laryngoscopy, Radiology, Fine needle aspiration cytology, biopsy, vestibular function test, skin prick test etc. as per suspected ailment. Patients needing surgeries are dated and are operated upon by qualified and experienced surgeon either under local anesthesia or under general anesthesia with the help of anesthetist.

The surgeons may also undertake Facial Plastic and Reconstruction surgery in some cases to take care of cosmetic and functional issues of the face and neck. This can include procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose surgery), facelifts, eyelid surgery, ear surgery, and reconstructive surgery after trauma or cancer treatment.

Facial plastic surgeons in our centers have specialized training in both plastic surgery and otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat), allowing them to address both functional and aesthetic issues of the face and neck. They use advanced surgical techniques to reshape, restore, and enhance the appearance of the face and neck, while preserving normal function and avoiding complications.

Some common surgeries include:

1. Tympanoplasty

Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure used to repair a perforated eardrum, and possibly any damage to the middle ear bones. A perforated eardrum can be caused by various factors, including infection, trauma, or exposure to loud noise. Tympanoplasty aims to improve hearing and prevent recurrent ear infections.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision behind the ear and removes any damaged tissue or debris from the middle ear. Then, the surgeon will reconstruct the eardrum using a graft, which may be taken from the patient’s own tissue or a synthetic material. If there is any damage to the middle ear bones, the surgeon may also repair or replace them as part of the same procedure.

Tympanoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia and is considered a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate. The surgery typically takes about an hour to complete, and patients may be able to go home the same day. Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks after the procedure.

After surgery, the patient will need to follow postoperative instructions carefully, such as avoiding water in the ear, avoiding heavy lifting, and using prescribed ear drops or antibiotics. Follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure that the patient’s hearing is improving.

Overall, Tympanoplasty can provide a significant improvement in hearing and quality of life for individuals with a perforated eardrum.

2. Mastoidectomy

Mastoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat conditions affecting the mastoid bone, which is located behind the ear. It is commonly performed to treat chronic otitis media, a condition in which there is inflammation and infection of the middle ear.

During a mastoidectomy, the surgeon makes an incision behind the ear and removes the infected or damaged tissue from the mastoid bone. The surgery may also involve removing any abnormal growths or cholesteatoma, a benign tumor-like growth that can develop in the middle ear.

The type of mastoidectomy performed will depend on the severity and location of the condition. Simple mastoidectomy involves removing only the infected or damaged portion of the mastoid bone, while radical mastoidectomy involves removing the entire mastoid bone, along with the middle ear structures.

Mastoidectomy is generally performed under general anesthesia and is considered a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual’s overall health, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks after the procedure.

After surgery, the patient will need to follow postoperative instructions carefully, such as avoiding water in the ear, taking prescribed antibiotics or ear drops, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Overall, Mastoidectomy can help alleviate symptoms of chronic otitis media, such as ear pain, discharge, and hearing loss. It’s important to consult with an ENT specialist to determine if this procedure is an appropriate treatment option for your individual case.

3. Myringoplasty

Myringoplasty is a surgical procedure used to repair a perforated eardrum. A perforated eardrum can be caused by various factors, including infection, trauma, or exposure to loud noise. Myringoplasty aims to improve hearing and prevent recurrent ear infections.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision behind the ear and removes any debris or damaged tissue from the middle ear. Then, the surgeon will reconstruct the eardrum using a graft, which may be taken from the patient’s own tissue or a synthetic material.

Myringoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia and is considered a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate. The surgery typically takes about an hour to complete, and patients may be able to go home the same day. Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks after the procedure.

After surgery, the patient will need to follow postoperative instructions carefully, such as avoiding water in the ear, avoiding heavy lifting, and using prescribed ear drops or antibiotics. Follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure that the patient’s hearing is improving.

Overall, Myringoplasty can provide a significant improvement in hearing and quality of life for individuals with a perforated eardrum. It’s important to consult with an ENT specialist to determine if this procedure is an appropriate treatment option for your individual case.

4. Head and Neck Surgery

Head and Neck Surgery is a surgical subspecialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions affecting the head and neck region. This includes a wide range of disorders, such as tumors, infections, trauma, deformities, and functional issues related to breathing, speech, and swallowing.

The types of procedures performed in Head and Neck Surgery vary depending on the specific condition being treated.

Head and Neck Surgery may be performed using traditional open surgical techniques or minimally invasive methods, such as endoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery. The choice of approach will depend on the individual patient’s condition and the expertise of the surgeon.

Recovery time after Head and Neck Surgery varies depending on the type and extent of the procedure performed. Patients will need to follow postoperative instructions carefully, such as avoiding certain activities, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure optimal outcomes.

Overall, Head and Neck Surgery is an important subspecialty in the field of Otolaryngology, offering effective treatments for a wide range of conditions affecting the head and neck region. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to this area, it is important to consult with an ENT specialist to determine if Head and Neck Surgery is an appropriate treatment option for your individual case.

5. Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure used to correct a deviated septum, a condition in which the nasal septum (the thin wall of bone and cartilage that separates the nasal passages) is displaced to one side, causing breathing difficulties and other symptoms.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the lining of the septum and removes or repositions the displaced bone and cartilage. In some cases, additional tissue may be added to straighten the septum and improve breathing.

Septoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia and is considered a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate. The surgery typically takes about an hour to complete, and patients may be able to go home the same day. Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks after the procedure.

After surgery, the patient will need to follow postoperative instructions carefully, such as avoiding strenuous activity, using prescribed nasal sprays or other medications, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure optimal outcomes.

6. Micro-laryngeal surgery

Micro-laryngeal surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat various conditions affecting the larynx (voice box) and surrounding structures. The procedure is performed using a specialized endoscope with a small camera and surgical instruments, allowing the surgeon to visualize and operate on the area through small incisions in the mouth or throat.

Micro-laryngeal surgery may be used to treat a wide range of conditions, such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, and cysts, laryngeal cancer, and other abnormalities that affect the voice and swallowing function. The procedure may also be used for diagnostic purposes, such as taking biopsies or removing tissue samples for further analysis.

During the procedure, the patient is usually under general anesthesia, and the surgeon uses the endoscope to visualize the larynx and surrounding structures. The surgeon can then use specialized surgical instruments to remove abnormal tissue, repair or reconstruct damaged structures, or take biopsies as needed.

Micro-laryngeal surgery is a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate, and most patients are able to return home the same day. Recovery time varies depending on the specific condition being treated, but most patients can resume normal activities within a few days to weeks after the procedure.

7. Tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove the tonsils, which are two small glands located in the back of the throat. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves the use of a scalpel, laser, or other surgical instruments to remove the tonsils.

Tonsillectomy is commonly performed to treat recurrent tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils), sleep apnea (a condition in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep), and other conditions that affect the tonsils, such as tumors or abscesses.

After the procedure, patients may experience some pain and discomfort in the throat, as well as difficulty swallowing and speaking. It is important to follow postoperative instructions carefully, such as avoiding certain foods and activities, using prescribed pain medication and antibiotics, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure optimal outcomes.

Tonsillectomy is considered a safe and effective procedure, with a high success rate in reducing the symptoms associated with tonsillitis and other conditions affecting the tonsils. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved, including bleeding, infection, and reaction to anesthesia.

Overall, Tonsillectomy is an important treatment option for various conditions affecting the tonsils, providing patients with relief from symptoms and improving overall health and well-being. If you are experiencing symptoms related to your tonsils, it is important to consult with an ENT specialist to determine if Tonsillectomy is an appropriate treatment option for your individual case.

8. Myringotomy

Myringotomy, also known as tympanostomy or ear tube surgery, is a medical procedure that involves creating a small incision in the eardrum to drain excess fluid or pus from the middle ear. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis and is usually performed on children, although adults may also undergo the procedure.

Myringotomy is often recommended when an individual has recurrent ear infections or a build-up of fluid in the middle ear that does not respond to antibiotics. The procedure can help relieve the pain and pressure associated with these conditions and reduce the risk of complications such as hearing loss and damage to the eardrum.

During the procedure, a small tube may be inserted into the incision to help keep it open and allow for continued drainage of fluid. The tube typically falls out on its own after a few months, although it may need to be removed by a healthcare provider in some cases.

While myringotomy is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, it does carry some risks, including infection, bleeding, and damage to the eardrum or other structures in the ear.