CCHC Otolaryngology: Treating Ear, Nose & Throat Conditions
Ear, Nose & Throat physicians, or otolaryngologists, diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat and related structures of the head and neck, including the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, and upper pharynx (mouth and throat).
That’s a lot of ground to cover, but the Cape’s board-certified ENT surgeons are uniquely qualified to perform a wide range of procedures. Our talented otolaryngologists work closely with the Boston ENT community and are continually updated on the latest developments.
You’ll find the same high standard of care at both Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital. Our Otolaryngologists perform a full complement of adult and pediatric services for nasal, sinus and ear surgeries, including the more complicated surgically correctable hearing loss and punctured ear drum. They also treat people with voice problems and conduct diagnostic evaluations for head, neck and gland cancers. Endoscopic sinus surgery enables surgeons to treat sinus problems under CT guidance. Both hospitals also take care of adult airway problems, post-surgical ventilator dependence, facial cosmetic surgery and a wide range of ear surgeries, including the innovative Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA).
Instruments and technology are constantly evolving. One example is using microwaves to alleviate snoring in a procedure called somnoplasty. Another is the use of lasers for less invasive stapedectomies with better results for hearing loss. Surgical expertise in these techniques has brought the Cape a greater ability to handle complex cases.
1 in 10 Americans suffer from sinusitis.
Anyone who has suffered from chronic sinus congestion can attest to the discomfort it brings. Many people endure it for years, trying over-the-counter medications, antibiotics and other remedies, or simply live with it.
Now there is sinuplasty, a relatively new procedure using a catheter and balloon device which has made sinus surgery at Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital less invasive with a quicker and more comfortable recovery time. Our otolaryngologists are skilled in the surgery, known as “Balloon Dilation Technology.” The technique widens the sinus opening permanently, without cutting, making it less susceptible to infection.
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Seasonal Allergies are Here
Seasonal (tree pollens and grass) and perennial (dust mites and animals) are the most common. In general, allergies tend to run in families. If both parents have allergies, there is a 60% chance a child will as well. In children, the typical age of onset is after five.Seasonal allergy symptoms include a chronic clear runny nose, itchy nose and allergic shiners (raccoon eyes).
It is important to determine what you are allergic to, since it is then easier to minimize exposure. A simple allergy test is done with a derma-pick. It’s quick and hurts less than a finger prick.