Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery

If you've been experiencing discomfort or abnormalities related to your ear, nose, or throat, we offer a wide array of surgical treatments that could help you regain your health and wellbeing by providing comprehensive solutions ranging from simple procedures to complex surgeries.

Ear Surgeries

Mastoidectomy

The Ulster Independent Clinic offers a wide range of ear, nose, and throat surgeries, among them is the mastoidectomy. You may need a mastoidectomy if there's an infection in the mastoid bone of the skull, normally caused by chronic ear infections. This can bring about symptoms such as a painful or draining ear, hearing loss, and sometimes dizziness.

The process starts with a comprehensive medical examination to check your suitability for the surgery. You'll also need to undergo auditory tests and possibly an MRI or head CT scan to provide your surgeon with a clearer picture of the mastoid bone. The surgery itself is carried out under general anesthesia and essentially involves removing the infected air cells within the mastoid bone. Post-operative care is imperative to ensure complete recovery and prevent any complications. The full recovery period is approximately 6 weeks.

Tympanoplasty

This reconstructive surgery is typically required when the eardrum and/or middle ear's tiny bones are damaged, often due to severe ear infections or injury. Symptoms that suggest you might need a tympanoplasty include difficulty hearing, persistent earache, or notable discharge.

Similar to the mastoidectomy, your journey will commence with a series of tests (e.g., tympanometry, auditory brainstem response), aimed at gauging your hearing levels and the extent of damage to your eardrum or middle ear bones. The actual surgery involves grafting tissues onto the eardrum or replacing/repairing damaged bones. It's imperative that you follow the post-op instructions after surgery, so as to prevent an ear infection and facilitate optimal recovery.

Myringotomy

Myringotomy is a common procedure performed at the Ulster Independent Clinic that people require predominantly for ear infections that haven't responded to other treatments. During a myringotomy, a small incision is made in your eardrum, allowing fluid to drain from your middle ear. This procedure can offer immediate relief from symptoms associated with ear infections, such as pain and reduced hearing.

You might need a myringotomy if you suffer from recurrent or chronic ear infections, particularly if these infections are affecting your hearing. This procedure is also often recommended for people suffering from eustachian tube dysfunction where the tube fails to open and close properly, creating a buildup of fluids or pressure which may lead to hearing impairment. Doctors at the clinic use state-of-the-art technology to carry out this surgery, ensuring a streamlined process and speedy recovery. The success of the surgery is typically monitored through follow-up appointments and, if necessary, repeat procedures.

In some cases, a myringotomy might be performed along with the placement of an ear tube (tympanostomy tube) through the eardrum to keep the middle ear aerated for a prolonged period of time. These tubes are often recommended when individuals have ongoing ear problems while they are under treatment for other medical conditions—like chemotherapy—or if the patient struggles with recurring ear infections.

The Ulster Independent Clinic ensures individualised care for every patient. The pre-medical treatment and constant monitoring potentially lower the impact of ailment progression during the referral period to the specialist ENT division.

Referrals to the clinic can be made for a range of ENT conditions, and even for the ones traditionally managed at a local facility, such as ear wax impaction. These decisions are made case by case, focusing on the patients' overall condition and the local facility's capabilities. In some instances, a remote consultation will be the first step, particularly under specific conditions and circumstances. Both traditional in-person consultation and remote consultation follow recognised quality standards and outcome measures at Ulster.

Stapedectomy

In the realm of ear surgeries, a stapedectomy is a common procedure that the Ulster Independent Clinic offers. This surgery addresses issues with the stapes bone in your ear. If you struggle with hearing loss due to otosclerosis - a condition where the stapes bone stiffens, preventing sound vibrations from reaching your inner ear - a stapedectomy could be a life-changing solution.

The process involves the surgeon replacing the stiffened stapes bone with a prosthetic, allowing those sound vibrations to once again reach your inner ear. It's a delicate procedure carried out under general or local anaesthesia, depending largely on individual patient preference and medical condition. You might experience a feeling of fullness in your ear or slight dizziness post-surgery, but these are temporary and gradually alleviate.

Before the operation, you'll have a thorough physical examination and engage in a detailed discussion with your ENT consultant about the procedure. Part of these pre-operative preparations might also involve the provision of a biopsy if necessary. You can rest assured that throughout each step of the process, your well-being is the priority at Ulster Independent Clinic.

Following the stapedectomy, it's critical to limit certain activities like heavy lifting or blowing your nose, as these could hamper the healing process. Appointments will be scheduled for regular check-ups to ensure the surgery's success and your recovery. Paediatric patients receive special attention and care, given their unique needs. The clinic aims to offer an environment of comfort and high-quality health care for all patients.

Nose Surgeries

Septorhinoplasty

Septorhinoplasty is an operation to mend both functional and cosmetic issues with your nose. You might be recommended this surgery if you have a deviated nasal septum causing you trouble in breathing, a mishaped nose from accidental injuries, or if you're simply unhappy with your nose's appearance.

The process of septorhinoplasty begins with your surgeon making incisions inside your nostrils or at the base of the nose. Then, they'll adjust and reshape the bone and cartilage underneath your skin. Remember that it's usually performed under general anesthesia, meaning you'll be asleep throughout the surgery. There's often a bit of swelling and bruising around the eyes after surgery, but don't worry, this is usually temporary and will subside within a couple of weeks.

In the case of a deviated septum, the surgery ensures a clear path for the air to flow through your nose while breathing. On the other hand, for cosmetic changes, the surgery can make subtle adjustments to the shape and size of your nose, helping you attain that enhanced look you're aiming for.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape or resize your nose. Performed for numerous reasons - either to improve breathing or to enhance aesthetic appeal - this operation is customised according to your specific needs and desires. The procedure can be "open" where cuts are made outside the nose or "closed," where cuts are made inside the nostrils. Surgery usually takes between 1.5 and 3 hours, followed by a temporary splint on the nose to support the new shape as it heals.

Closure of Nasal Septum

The closure of the nasal septum, also known as Septoplasty, is a corrective surgical procedure that's aimed at straightening the wall between your nostrils (septum). When the septum is deviated, crooked, or it impedes breathing, this operation becomes a necessity. Whether it's a condition you were born with (a congenital defect) or the result of an injury, a straightened septum can significantly improve breathing and alleviate symptoms of sinusitis or reduce nasal discharge.

During the surgery, you'll be placed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon will then make an incision in the septum lining and lift up the mucous membranes, which are the thin "skin" that covers the septum. This way, your surgeon is able to reshape the cartilage underneath. Once the septum is straightened, the incisions will be closed with dissolvable stitches and the nostrils might be packed with cotton to hold the septum in place.

Recovery typically involves rest and elevation of the head. You might experience some nasal stuffiness and mild nasal drip after the procedure, but these symptoms will abate over time. A successful septoplasty can dramatically improve your quality of life, particularly if you have been struggling with chronic sinusitis or sleep disruptions due to snoring or sleep apnea. It's important to communicate openly with your ENT specialist so they can factor in how your physical condition might affect the surgery and healing post-operation.

Reduction of Turbinates

If you're experiencing continuous nasal congestion or obstruction which is not responding to medication  you may have enlarged turbinates. Turbinates are small, shell-like structures inside the nose that help to warm and humidify the air we breathe. Turbinate reduction or turbinateplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size of these enlarged turbinates. This typically provides patients with immediate relief from nasal obstruction, improving breathing and overall quality of life.

The procedure begins with an examination, after which anesthetic is applied. Special surgical instruments or microdebriders are used to cut away parts of the enlarged turbinates. To minimise bleeding and promote faster healing, a device called a coblator or radiofrequency probe might be used. Coblation technology uses low-temperature radiofrequency energy to remove tissues gently without causing thermal damage. All in all, the procedure takes around 15 to 30 minutes.

Throat Surgeries

Pharynx

The pharynx acts as a conduit for both food and air, making it a region susceptible to various health complications.

Tonsillectomy: This common procedure involves the surgical removal of the tonsils, which are two glands located at the back of your throat. Tonsillectomy is often considered when you suffer from recurrent tonsillitis, chronic throat infections, or obstructive sleep apnea. The aim is to alleviate the symptoms and improve your quality of life. Before the surgery, a comprehensive assessment is conducted to ensure you're a suitable candidate for the procedure.

Adenoidectomy: If you're frequently battling ear infections, persistent nasal congestion, or sleep disturbances caused by enlarged adenoids, your doctor might recommend this procedure. It's particularly effective in children, who often experience significant improvement in their symptoms after surgery. It is a routine operation aimed at alleviating symptoms like chronic infections or breathing issues. During the procedure, you will be under general anaesthesia to ensure comfort. Surgeons will access the adenoids through the mouth, so no external incisions are needed. Recovery is typically straightforward, involving a few days of rest and mild pain relievers to manage discomfort.

Pharyngectomy: This is a surgical procedure involving the partial or total removal of the pharynx, typically to treat pharyngeal cancer. Before undergoing this procedure, you would undergo a thorough physical examination and possibly a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. A pharyngectomy is a major surgery, often requiring a recovery period during which you may need a temporary tracheostomy – a hole created in the front of your neck to help you breathe. You will be monitored closely during this time to ensure your body adjusts effectively to the changes.

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): If you suffer from disruptive snoring and sleep apnea, a UPPP might be an effective solution. This procedure removes excess tissue from the throat, including the uvula and part of the pharynx, to create a wider air passage and thereby improve breathing during sleep. Following the operation, you might need to stay in the hospital for close monitoring, but most patients can expect to return home within one to two days.

Adenoidectomy: The adenoids, located in your pharynx, can become enlarged and block the airways, causing breathing difficulties and recurring ear or sinus infections. If this becomes a persistent issue, an adenoidectomy is performed to remove these glands. It's a common procedure, especially among children, and usually includes a brief hospital stay for recovery.

Adenotonsillectomy: An adenotonsillectomy is a procedure that involves the removal of both the adenoids and tonsils, commonly performed in children who experience recurrent throat infections or significant breathing problems.

Larynx

Positioned at the top of your windpipe, this organ is essential for breathing, swallowing, and speaking. Sometimes, health concerns may necessitate laryngeal operations, typically performed at the Ulster Independent Clinic. There are several common types of these surgeries, all supervised and conducted by a team of skilled ENT professionals.

Laryngectomy: A laryngectomy is an operation to remove part or all of your larynx, typically as a treatment for laryngeal cancer. Prior to the surgery, you will undergo extensive diagnostic procedures, such as an X-ray or, possibly, an endoscopic examination, to evaluate the initial condition. After the surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for close monitoring. Postoperative requirements often include learning new ways for breathing and speaking without a larynx.

Laryngoscopy: This procedure, a type of endoscopy, allows doctors to view your larynx directly by inserting a thin tube with a light and camera into your throat. A laryngoscopy can provide essential insights into any abnormalities, like tumors or foreign objects, which may be causing throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or changes in your voice. It's typically performed under local or general anaesthesia and is generally out-patient, meaning you can go home on the day of the procedure.

Laryngeal Microsurgery: This operation, conducted with a microscope to gain a detailed view of the vocal cords in the larynx, allows surgeons to remove small vocal cord lesions or reconstruct the vocal cords to improve voice quality. Preceding the procedure, you might require diagnostics such as an X-ray or a careful clinical examination. Having laryngeal microsurgery can mean spending a few days in the hospital. As your vocal cords heal, you will be instructed by your doctor to observe voice rest, meaning no talking, whispering, or even clearing your throat, for a while post-operation.