Many times surgical care is needed to help stop or lessen the severity of an ear, nose or throat condition. The most common procedures preformed by Otolaryngologists, are myringotomy and tube placement in the ears, tonsillectomies and tympanoplasties. Our otolaryngologists work closely with other pediatric sub-specialists at the hospital for consult on their surgical cases.

Myringotomy and Tube Placement

Myringotomy is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure caused by the excessive build-up of fluid in the ears by making a small incision in the eardrum. This procedure is often performed as a treatment for severe cases of otitis media (middle ear infection). A tympanostomy tube (also known as a pressure equalizer tube) is done along with a myringotomy after excess fluid is suctioned out. The tympanostomy tube is then inserted into the eardrum in order to keep the middle ear aerated for a prolonged period of time.

The tympanostomy tube will stay in the ear for varying amounts of time depending on the infection. The tubes will fallout on their own, usually a year and a half after they are placed. Parents are encouraged to go to follow-up appointments every couple months or as directed.

Tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the infected and swollen tonsils.  Sleep apnea, persistent and recurring tonsillitis and swollen tonsils are some problems that may require a tonsillectomy. The procedure generally lasts 20 minutes in an outpatient setting in the Surgical Center and overnight hospitalization is usually not necessary.

Tympanoplasty

Tympanoplasty, also called eardrum repair, is a surgical procedure that reconstructs a perforated eardrum or the small bones of the middle ear. Eardrum perforation may result from chronic infection or trauma to the eardrum.

Adenoidectomy

Adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the infected and swollen adenoids, located in the back of the throat. Untreated, infected adenoids restrict breathing, especially during sleep. This can cause sleep problems such as sleep apnea and snoring. The procedure lasts 15 – 30 minutes in an outpatient setting in the Surgical Center and overnight hospitalization is usually not necessary.

Turbinate Reduction

Turbinate reduction is a surgical procedure that corrects the problem of nasal obstruction by reducing the turbinate size. Turbinates on each side of the nose clean and humidify the air as it moves through the nose to the lungs. By reducing the size of the turbinate, sleeping and breathing disorders are treated.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Endoscopic sinus surgery, also called endoscopy or sinoscopy, is a procedure that removes blockages in the sinuses. An endoscope, a light, thin camera-mounted instrument, is inserted into the nose where the doctor will look for blockages. The procedure is done entirely through the nostrils; most patients can go home the same day.