Otolaryngology is a medical specialty focused on treating the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Also known as ENT, an otolaryngologist is trained to diagnose and manage diseases of these structures, as well as perform surgical procedures when necessary.부산이비인후과 In addition to diagnosing disorders of the ear, nose, and throat, otolaryngologists are skilled at managing issues with the mouth, larynx (voice box), esophagus, and other areas of the upper respiratory tract. They are also trained to identify and control tumors that can occur in these structures, as well as other problems with the ear, hearing loss, balance disorders, and allergies.
An otolaryngologist can prescribe medicine or surgery for a wide range of conditions that affect these areas, as well as perform tests to determine the cause of the problem. Many patients may be referred to an otolaryngologist by their primary care physician or another specialist. Occasionally, these physicians can run comprehensive hearing, balance, and allergy testing in their office. Depending on the patient’s symptoms, an otolaryngologist may recommend a variety of diagnostic procedures that include bloodwork, imaging studies, or swallowing studies.부산코골이
Because otolaryngologists are both doctors and surgeons, they can treat a wide variety of conditions directly in their offices. They commonly perform a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy, which removes inflamed parts of the throat that can lead to infection and interfere with breathing. They also perform sinus surgeries, such as removing polyps or a deviated septum to help with nasal congestion and improve breathing. They can even perform a minimally invasive tracheotomy to clear blocked airways in the event of a life-threatening condition like pulmonary emphysema.
In some cases, otolaryngologists can perform reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgeries of the head and neck, such as repairing cleft palates or correcting defects caused by previous surgery or trauma. They are also trained in performing biopsies to identify suspicious masses or tumors that can occur anywhere in the body, including those of the head and neck.
While some otolaryngologists are committed to academic research and join the faculty at universities, others choose private practice. Many of these physicians are part of group practices that specialize in particular areas of the head and neck, such as otology/neurotology, pediatric otolaryngology, rhinology and sinus disease, laryngology, head and neck cancer, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
The training of an otolaryngologist can take up to five years, from medical school to completion of the residency program. During the first year of medical school, otolaryngology students study anatomy, physiology, and other subjects that will be useful in their future careers as health care providers. They will also participate in clinical rotations that give them experience with different specializations, such as otorhinolaryngology. During this time, they are preparing to become board-certified specialists. After completing their training, most physicians will choose an area of subspecialty in which to further specialize and enhance their career prospects. Those who are interested in conducting research may continue to study for a post-graduate fellowship.