Pediatric Otolaryngologist

The University of California Irvine Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery consist of a group of surgeons, physicians, and scientists who are at the forefront of the field, including pediatric otolaryngologist experts. We see patients of all ages for any issues relating to the ear, nose and throat, including head and neck related issues. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can help resolve your child’s health concerns while making sure that he or she feels safe and calm in our offices and with our staff.

What is pediatric otolaryngology?

Otolaryngologists are commonly called ear, nose throat doctors, but that is a very narrow description of this specialty. They are also able to perform surgery, and can treat a wide range of complex diseases and disorders relating to the head and neck. While many otolaryngologists also treat children, a pediatric otolaryngologist has special training in working with children, and are familiar with the differences between treating and operating on adults versus children.

What kind of training is involved?

Pediatric otolaryngologists are medical doctors who are also board-certified in surgery. In addition to four years of college and four years of medical school, they go through a year-long surgical internship, one year of surgical residency training, several years of residency training specifically in otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, and they usually go through fellowship programs at an institution like a children's hospital. This rigorous training process ensures that a pediatric otolaryngologist is well qualified and educated, and that they are comfortable working with children.

In addition to the training and certification of any other otolaryngologist, the team at our group is immersed in continuing education. Our doctors regularly instruct medical students and physicians who are in training. Additionally, the doctors in our group are invited to speak and instruct at lectures on the national, regional, and international levels.

What conditions do pediatric otolaryngologists treat?

The conditions and issues that a pediatric otolaryngologist treats is very vast. Here are some examples:

• Ear infections (otitis media)
• Hearing loss (including implanting cochlear implants)
• Cysts
• Ruptured eardrums or other ear injuries
• Swimmer's ear

• Chronic runny or congested nose (rhinorrhea)
• Nasal obstruction or masses
• Sinus infections (sinusitis)
• Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Deviated septum

• Throat infections
• Sleep apnea
• Vocal cord lesions or paralysis
• Swallowing problems
• Hoarseness
• Adenoid infections

• Masses or tumors
• Diseases of the lymph nodes
• Problems with the salivary glands
• Facial paralysis
• Cleft lip/palate
• Facial injuries
• Thyroid diseases
• Injuries to the head and neck

• Noisy breathing (laryngomalacia)
• Stridor or wheezing
• Masses or tumors
• Foreign body in the throat
• Difficulty breathing or narrowing of the windpipe

Pediatric otolaryngologists are also often involved in the care of premature infants, children with congenital defects, and children with speech or developmental disorders.

What treatments do pediatric otolaryngologists provide?

At our office, we can provide the following services, among others:

• Diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck disorders and diseases
• Head and neck surgery, including aftercare
• Consultation with other doctors in complex cases
• Assistance in identification of communication disorders

The Best Care For Your Child

Pediatric otolaryngologists specialize in working with children. They understand the importance of making your child comfortable, and are used to approaching scared and impatient children in a comforting and nonthreatening manner. Head, neck, or face pain can be confusing and scary for small children, and they are not always able to tell a doctor exactly what's wrong. In addition, symptoms may present differently in babies than they would in adults. A pediatric otolaryngologist is knowledgeable in these differences, and their ability to work with children ensures that they are the best doctors to go to when your child has ear, nose, throat, head, or neck conditions. In addition, pediatric otolaryngologists usually have specialized equipment designed for smaller necks and heads, and will provide a more comfortable and expert exam for your child.

Contact our offices today if you have any concerns about your child’s health, or if you notice any of the symptoms located above. Your child’s primary pediatrician might also refer you to our office. We are happy to answer any questions that you might have about ear, nose and throat conditions, including the treatments that are available.

We strive to make sure that you and your child are comfortable while being seen in our office by out experienced physicians. Call to schedule an appointment today in order to get a thorough diagnosis and a treatment plan as soon as possible.