Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Approximately 35 million Americans suffer from chronic sinusitis annually, 10% have loss of hearing in the United States (1) and a significant number of ER (Emergency room) visits and doctor office visits are due to problems involving the ear, nose and throat or related structures in the head and neck.
Children’s complaints range from earaches to neck tumors, the elderly try to deal with dizziness and balance difficulties, and adults may be troubled by voice and swallowing problems.
GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease), nosebleeds, sleep apnea, URIs (Upper Respiratory Infections), facial fractures are a few more of the common conditions that at times require the skill and consultation of ENT physicians.
Otolaryngology — oh/toe/lar/in/GOLL/oh/ jee — is the oldest medical specialty in the United States, dating back to the late 19th century. Otolaryngologists are physicians and surgeons trained to diagnose and to treat diseases and disorders of the ear, nose and throat, commonly referred to as ENT specialists.
They are educated to manage infections and tumors in the head and neck region and trained to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The Otolaryngology – Head and Neck residency program consists of at least five years of both medical and surgical training, and medical school graduates compete to obtain a position in this highly prized program.
Some Otolaryngologists decide to continue their education after completion of their ENT residency in a subspecialty program These advanced training programs are called “Fellowships” and can include Pediatric Otolaryngology, Facial Plastic (Cosmetic) and Reconstructive Surgery, Allergy/Rhinology (disorders of the sinuses and nose), Head and Neck Surgery, the Professional Voice and Larynx (disorders of the throat and voice box) and Otology/Neurotology (disorders of the ears including trauma, infections and tumors).
Otolaryngologists are especially suited to manage patients with head and neck or ENT problems. Rarely do they refer patients to their subspecialty colleagues for treatment.
With the increase usage of Telemedicine (TM) they are in a position to play an important role in the delivery of health care in the years ahead.
1. American Academy of Otolaryngology; What is an Otolaryngologist?