In-office procedures

Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) clinics offer a variety of in-office procedures to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat. These procedures are often minimally invasive and can be performed during a routine clinic visit. Here are some common in-office procedures performed in an ENT clinic:

Otoscopy: An otoscope is used to examine the ear canal and eardrum. It helps the ENT specialist visualize any abnormalities, such as earwax buildup, infections, or ear drum perforations.

Nasal endoscopy: A flexible or rigid endoscope is inserted into the nostrils to visualize the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx. This procedure helps in diagnosing conditions like nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis, or deviated septum.

Tympanometry: Tympanometry measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. It helps assess middle ear function and diagnose conditions like otitis media or Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Allergy testing: Allergy testing is performed to identify specific allergens that may be causing nasal or respiratory symptoms. Common methods include skin prick tests or blood tests to detect allergen-specific antibodies.

Vocal cord examination: Using a laryngoscope, the ENT specialist can examine the vocal cords and surrounding structures. This procedure helps diagnose conditions like vocal cord nodules, polyps, or laryngitis.

Biopsies: In certain cases, an ENT specialist may perform a biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for further evaluation. This can be done using specialized instruments to collect samples from the throat, nasal passages, or other areas of concern.

Ear wax removal: Excessive earwax can cause hearing loss, discomfort, or infections. Ear wax removal can be done using various techniques, such as irrigation, suction, or gentle manual removal using specialized instruments.

Injections: In-office injections are sometimes performed for conditions like vocal cord paralysis or spasmodic dysphonia. These injections can help improve vocal cord function and reduce voice-related symptoms.

Hearing tests: Audiometry tests are conducted in a soundproof booth to evaluate hearing ability. These tests can help diagnose hearing loss, determine its severity, and guide appropriate management.

Balloon sinuplasty: Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure performed to treat chronic sinusitis. It involves the use of a small balloon catheter to dilate and open blocked sinuses, promoting better drainage.

It’s important to note that the availability of specific in-office procedures may vary depending on the ENT clinic and the expertise of the healthcare providers. The ENT specialist will assess your symptoms, perform a thorough examination, and recommend the appropriate in-office procedures to diagnose and treat your specific condition.