Additional Information
Ears
Otolaryngologists treat a full range of ear illnesses including, but not limited to, ear infections, swimmer’s ear, general ear pain, tinnitus, dizziness and hearing loss.
Ear exams are conducted using a microscope. During the exam, Dr. Kane may recognize an inner ear, middle ear, or outer ear infection (swimmer’s ear). Middle ear infections are common in children. If a child’s middle ear infections become persistent, ear tubes may be recommended.
Dizziness may be caused by a problem with the inner ear. After a complete ENT exam, further evaluation including an audiogram, videonystagmography (VNG), and/or a CT scan or MRI may be ordered.
Hearing loss is comprehensively evaluated by both our ENT physician and our audiologist. Dr. Kane will determine the best method of treatment which may be as simple as removing ear wax, or as complicated as treating an acoustic neuroma. In cases where a hearing aid device is determined to be helpful, our audiologist will assist you.
Tinnitus (ringing in the ear) is evaluated by our otolaryngologist, Dr. Kane. An audiological exam is also performed. Dr. Kane will discuss treatment options with the patient.
Nose
Otolaryngologists treat a full range of illnesses associated with the nose and airway. Some of these areas associated with the nose and airway are:
Sinus diseases: Included in a complete ENT exam, may be a nasal endoscopy which allows the otolaryngologist to examine the deeper aspects of the nose using a telescope. A CT scan or MRI may be ordered to further evaluate the patient’s disease. The patient may be treated medically, but if sinus disease persists, surgery may be recommended.
Snoring/Sleep Apnea: An upper airway evaluation is completed by our otolaryngologist. A sleep study evaluation may be ordered. A breathing machine called a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is one of many options; a surgical procedure called a uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) may be recommended.
Deviated Septum: In a deviated septum, the cartilaginous ridge leans to the left or the right causing obstruction of the affected nasal passage. Patients may have breathing difficulties, bloody noses, or of sleep disorders such as snoring or sleep apnea. The surgical procedure that corrects the deviated septum is called a septoplasty.
Rhinoplasty: An otolaryngologist performs this surgery in order to improve the function and/or appearance of the nose. Otolaryngologists also treat stuffy noses, nose bleeds, loss of smell issues, adenoid problems, and airway obstruction.
Throat
Otolaryngologists treat a full range of illnesses associated with the throat. Some of these are:
Thyroid Tumors, Nodules, Goiters: A fine needle aspiration and an ultrasound may be ordered to determine the extent of the thyroid tumor, and suggest whether the tumor is malignant or benign. Surgical removal of the tumor may be necessary.
Parathyroid: Parathyroid glands are usually located behind the thyroid gland. Parathyroid glands control the amount of calcium in the blood and within the bones. Many conditions are associated with disorders of parathyroid function.
Voice Disorders/Hoarseness: Medical illnesses such as asthma, acid reflux, and thyroid disease may contribute to voice disorders. Dr. Kane may perform a rigid or flexible laryngoscopy by using a fiberoptic telescope in order to see the larynx. Referral to a speech therapist may be appropriate.
Tonsils: Tonsillitis refers to an inflammation or enlargement of the tonsils. If tonsillitis persists in spite of medical treatment, the tonsils may be removed surgically. Tonsillectomy may be indicated if the tonsils obstruct the airway or interfere with swallowing.
Swallowing Disorders: A flexible laryngoscopy, videostroboscopy and/or radiological evaluation may be performed. Referral to a speech therapist may be appropriate.
More Services
Parotid: The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland. The most common of tumors in the parotid gland are benign, but they can cause facial pain. Parotid tumors can be cancerous.
Tumors: Otolaryngologists treat many types of cancerous and benign tumors of the head and neck such as those found in the larynx, nasal pharynx, thyroid, tonsils and more.
Reflux Disease: Otolaryngologists treat GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and LPR (layryngeal pharyngeal reflux).