Washu Otolaryngology (2025)

FAQs

What is the difference between ENT and otolaryngology? ›

ENT vs. otolaryngologist

Another name for an otolaryngologist is ENT, which stands for “ear, nose and throat.” Both terms mean the same thing. “ENT” is the more common term, probably because it's easier to remember. But “otolaryngologist” is the medical term for this type of specialist.

​​The otolaryngology residency match is a highly competitive process, where fourth-year medical student applicants apply to a limited number of residency positions across the country. Almost every year, there are more applicants than the actual number of residency spots [1,2].

Otolaryngology is the oldest medical specialty in the United States. Otolaryngologists are physicians trained in the medical and surgical management and treatment of patients with diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related structures of the head and neck.

An audiologist primarily treats hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance issues; an otolaryngologist typically does not treat hearing loss, instead treating other medical issues related to the ears, nose, and throat.

What do otolaryngologists treat? Ear: Otolaryngologists are trained in the medical and surgical treatment of hearing loss, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain, and facial and cranial nerve disorders. They also manage congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear.

Common surgeries include sinus surgery, which aims to alleviate sinus blockages and improve breathing, tonsillectomy for chronic tonsillitis or sleep apnoea management, and myringotomy with grommet insertion to address fluid buildup in the ear, commonly known as glue ear.

What are the most competitive residencies? Competitive residencies are often specialties requiring extensive training, such as plastic surgery, thoracic surgery, and radiology. Their competitiveness stems from the intensive nature of the programs and the limited number of positions available.

As of Sep 7, 2024, the average annual pay for an Otolaryngologist in the United States is $337,283 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $162.16 an hour. This is the equivalent of $6,486/week or $28,106/month.

Otolaryngology residencies are typically less competitive than orthopedic surgery residencies. Your USMLE scores, med school, and research are the main things for residency applications.

Who is the father of Otolaryngology? ›

This year marks the centenary of the death of Adam Politzer (1835-1920). He has been described as the Father of Otology [1] and was certainly the most influential person in otology in the latter half of the 19th century [2].

An audiologist should be your first port of call if you are affected by hearing loss. While it's part of an audiologist's job to determine the cause of your hearing loss, they may not always be able to administer the most effective course of treatment.

An otolaryngologist (oh-toe-lair-in-GAH-luh-jist) is a physician who provides medical and surgical care, diagnosis, and treatment of the ear, nose, throat, and neck. Sometimes called an ENT, an otolaryngologist will work with you to find out why you're having trouble hearing and offer specific treatment options.

“Otolaryngologist” is just another word for the same medical specialty as an ENT - an ear, nose, and throat specialist. The only difference is that ENT is easier to remember and pronounce.

Examples include rhinologists (nose), laryngologists (throat), and otologists (ears). A primary care doctor can refer you to an otolaryngologist in your area.

The surgeon makes a tiny incision in the ear drum using a small scalpel or laser, then suctions the fluid out of the middle ear. The doctor inserts a small tube in the incision in the eardrum to allow fluid to drain.

An otologist or neurotologist is a highly specialized ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor who may be able to find the root of your problem and recommend procedures to treat your: Complex ear disease. Hearing loss that could be improved with an implantable hearing device.

The word otorhinolaryngology or its shorter form, otolaryngology, is derived from the Greek root words: otos (ear), rhino (nose), laryngo (windpipe) and logos (science). So an otorhinolaryngologist is a physician who studied, trained in, and treats diseases of the ear, nose, throat, face, head and neck.