Office hours are generally 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with occasional late night and weekend hours. Call Us: 1-800-851-6672

In-Office Procedures

Did you know that many ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) procedures can be safely and effectively performed in an office setting, offering convenience and efficiency for patients? MOSA offers a variety of in-office procedures

Common Ear Procedures

MOSA Audiology is your choice for hearing and balance healthcare. Our services include hearing exams, hearing aid services, custom earplugs, vestibular and cochlear testing, as well as bone anchored hearing aids. To learn more about MOSA Audiology: Click Here

Ear wax buildup (cerumen impaction) can cause discomfort, hearing loss, or ear infections. MOSA can safely remove excess ear wax using specialized instruments or irrigation techniques in the office.

Tympanostomy is a surgical procedure performed by MOSA to place ear tubes. Tympanostomy is sometimes called ear tube surgery. Tympanostomy is one of the most common surgeries in children.

The Epley maneuver is a series of head movements to relieve symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is caused by a problem in the inner ear.

Some causes of vertigo and hearing loss can be treated effectively with steroids.  An example of this would be sudden hearing loss from inner ear nerve inflammation.  Traditionally, oral steroids are used to treat this condition.  When oral steroids are not effective or the patient does not tolerate them, or another medical condition does not allow a patient to use them, an alternative is a steroid perfusion.  A very small quantity of steroid solution is placed in the middle ear through a small hold in the eardrum under local anesthesia in the office.  This allows the steroid to be absorbed directly into the inner ear – sometimes with more effectiveness than steroid pills.  There are some conditions such as vertigo from certain types of Meniere’s disease that also sometimes will respond to a steroid perfusion.

Balance testing using VNG (videonystagmography), ECoG (electrocochleography), or VEMP (vestibular evoked myogenic potential) typically involves a series of non-invasive tests to assess the function of the vestibular system, which contributes to balance and spatial orientation. VNG measures eye movements in response to visual and positional stimuli, helping to diagnose conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis. ECoG evaluates electrical activity in the inner ear to diagnose conditions such as Meniere’s disease. VEMP assesses muscle responses in the neck or eyes to sound or vibration stimuli, aiding in the diagnosis of vestibular disorders. These tests provide valuable information to MOSA specialists for diagnosing balance disorders and planning appropriate treatment.

Common Nose & Sinus Procedures

Chronic nose bleeds are an increasingly common problem. As more and more people are treated with blood thinning medications chronic nose bleeding has increased in frequency and severity. Treatment of nose bleeding can range from simple moisturization to temporary packing to cauterization. MOSA can perform electrical cauterization (the most powerful form), in the office under local anesthesia.

Turbinate reduction, also known as turbinate surgery or turbinate reduction surgery, is a procedure performed to alleviate symptoms related to nasal congestion and obstruction caused by enlarged nasal turbinates. The nasal turbinates are bony structures covered with mucous membranes located inside the nose. When these turbinates become swollen or enlarged due to allergies, infections, or other nasal conditions, they can obstruct airflow and lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, or sleep disturbances. Turbinate reduction aims to reduce the size of the turbinates, either by trimming, cauterizing, or removing a portion of the tissue, to improve nasal airflow and alleviate symptoms. This procedure is often performed by otolaryngologists (ENT specialists) and can be done using various techniques, including radiofrequency ablation, laser therapy, or traditional surgical methods.

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis and related nasal issues. During the procedure, a small, flexible balloon catheter is inserted into the blocked sinus passages. Once in place, the balloon is gently inflated, which expands the sinus openings, allowing for drainage and ventilation. This process helps to relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and pressure. Balloon sinuplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia and offers a quicker recovery time compared to traditional sinus surgery. It is often considered a less invasive alternative for patients who have not responded well to medications but want to avoid more extensive surgery.

MOSA Doctors have extensive training in the anatomy and function of the nose, including its relationship to the sinuses and airway. They are skilled in assessing nasal injuries and determining the best course of treatment to ensure optimal function and aesthetics. MOSA will provide a comprehensive evaluation and consider both functional and cosmetic factors to provide the optimal outcome for the patient.

Submucosal resection, also known as submucous resection or septoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated septum—a condition where the thin wall (septum) between the nasal passages is crooked or misaligned. During the surgery, the surgeon makes an incision inside the nose and lifts the mucous membrane covering the septum. Then, they carefully remove or reposition the deviated portion of the septum, straightening it to improve airflow through the nasal passages. After the correction, the mucous membrane is repositioned over the septum, and the incision is closed. Submucosal resection can help alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, recurrent sinus infections, and snoring. It is often performed by otolaryngologists (ENT specialists) and may be combined with other nasal surgeries or procedures, such as turbinate reduction, to optimize nasal function and relieve symptoms.

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a medical procedure used to treat various conditions by applying high-frequency electrical currents to targeted tissues. In the context of otolaryngology (ENT), radiofrequency ablation is commonly used to address chronic nasal and sinus issues, such as chronic rhinitis, turbinate hypertrophy, and obstructive sleep apnea.

During the procedure, a specialized device delivers controlled radiofrequency energy to the targeted area, typically the nasal turbinates or soft palate. This energy generates heat, which causes the targeted tissue to shrink or coagulate without causing significant damage to surrounding healthy tissue. In the case of nasal turbinate reduction, RFA can help reduce the size of swollen turbinates, improving nasal airflow and alleviating symptoms of nasal congestion and obstruction.

Radiofrequency ablation is typically performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia and often offers several advantages over traditional surgical techniques, including minimal discomfort, shorter recovery times, and reduced risk of complications. However, its effectiveness may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and individual patient factors.

Coblation, short for “controlled ablation,” is a surgical technique used in various medical specialties, including ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgery. In the context of ENT procedures, coblation involves the use of a specialized device that utilizes radiofrequency energy to precisely remove or reshape tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

During coblation procedures in an ENT clinic, the device delivers radiofrequency energy to a conductive medium (such as saline solution) to create a plasma field. This plasma field breaks down molecular bonds within the targeted tissue, allowing for precise removal or modification. Coblation offers several advantages over traditional surgical techniques, including reduced bleeding, less postoperative pain, and quicker recovery times.

In ENT practice, coblation may be used for various procedures, including:

  1. Tonsillectomy: Coblation tonsillectomy involves removing the tonsils (tonsillectomy) using coblation technology. This technique offers the advantage of reduced postoperative pain and faster recovery compared to traditional tonsillectomy methods.

  2. Adenoidectomy: Coblation adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoids, which are lymphoid tissue located at the back of the nose. Coblation technology allows for precise removal of the adenoids with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.

  3. Turbinoplasty: Coblation turbinoplasty is a procedure used to reduce the size of enlarged nasal turbinates, which can contribute to nasal congestion and obstruction. Coblation technology enables controlled reduction of the turbinates while preserving the function of the nasal passages.

  4. Nasal Polypectomy: Coblation may also be used to remove nasal polyps, which are noncancerous growths that can obstruct the nasal passages and cause symptoms such as nasal congestion and loss of smell.

Overall, coblation technology offers ENT surgeons a safe and effective option for performing various procedures with reduced tissue damage and improved patient outcomes. However, the specific use of coblation in an ENT clinic may vary depending on the surgeon’s expertise and the patient’s individual needs. It’s essential to consult with an ENT specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific condition.

ENT biopsies may involve various techniques depending on the location and nature of the suspected abnormality. Some common types of ENT biopsies include:

  1. Nasal Biopsy: Used to obtain tissue samples from the nasal cavity or sinuses, often performed to diagnose conditions such as chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or sinonasal tumors.

  2. Throat Biopsy: Involves obtaining tissue samples from the throat, including the tonsils, pharynx, or larynx (voice box), to diagnose conditions such as throat cancer, infections, or inflammatory disorders.

  3. Ear Biopsy: Used to collect samples from the ear canal, middle ear, or mastoid bone, typically performed to diagnose conditions such as chronic ear infections, cholesteatoma, or tumors of the ear.

  4. Neck Biopsy: Involves sampling lymph nodes or other tissues in the neck region to diagnose conditions such as lymphoma, metastatic cancer, or infections.

ENT biopsies are usually performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the location and complexity of the procedure. Once the tissue sample is obtained, it is sent to a pathology laboratory for examination under a microscope by a pathologist, who provides a definitive diagnosis based on the tissue’s characteristics. The results of the biopsy help guide further management and treatment decisions for the patient.

Clarifix is a medical device used in the treatment of chronic rhinitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the nasal passages leading to persistent symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip.

The Clarifix device delivers controlled cooling to the posterior nasal nerves, which are responsible for triggering rhinitis symptoms. By targeting these nerves, Clarifix aims to reduce the severity and frequency of chronic rhinitis symptoms. The procedure typically involves inserting a small, flexible catheter into the nasal passages under local anesthesia. Once in place, the catheter delivers precise cooling to the targeted nerves, resulting in their temporary disruption. This disruption can help alleviate nasal symptoms and improve overall quality of life for patients with chronic rhinitis.

Clarifix is considered a minimally invasive treatment option for chronic rhinitis and is often recommended for patients who have not responded adequately to other conservative treatments such as medications or allergy therapies. It is typically performed by otolaryngologists (ENT specialists) in an office-based setting and offers the advantage of quick recovery and minimal downtime for patients. However, as with any medical procedure, potential risks and benefits should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine if Clarifix is an appropriate treatment option for individual patients.

VivAer is a medical device used in the treatment of nasal airway obstruction, specifically addressing issues related to nasal valve collapse. Nasal valve collapse occurs when the narrowest part of the nasal airway, known as the nasal valve, becomes weakened or collapses inward during inhalation, resulting in restricted airflow through the nose.

The VivAer device offers a minimally invasive solution for nasal valve collapse by providing structural support to the nasal valve area. It utilizes a technique called radiofrequency energy remodeling to strengthen the nasal valve tissue and improve nasal airflow.

During the VivAer procedure, a small handheld device is inserted into the nasal passages, delivering controlled radiofrequency energy to the nasal valve region. This energy stimulates tissue contraction and collagen remodeling, resulting in increased nasal valve support and improved airflow.

VivAer is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia and offers several advantages, including minimal discomfort, quick recovery, and potentially lasting improvement in nasal breathing. It is often recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of nasal obstruction due to nasal valve collapse, such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, or sleep disturbances.

As with any medical procedure, potential risks and benefits should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine if VivAer is an appropriate treatment option for individual patients.

RhinAer is a medical device used in the treatment of chronic rhinitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the nasal passages leading to persistent symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip.

The RhinAer device provides a minimally invasive treatment option for chronic rhinitis by targeting the posterior nasal nerves, which are responsible for triggering rhinitis symptoms. It utilizes a technique called radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to selectively disrupt the function of these nerves, reducing the severity and frequency of rhinitis symptoms.

During the RhinAer procedure, a small, flexible catheter is inserted into the nasal passages under local anesthesia. The catheter delivers controlled radiofrequency energy to the posterior nasal nerves, resulting in their temporary disruption. This disruption helps alleviate nasal symptoms and improve overall quality of life for patients with chronic rhinitis.

RhinAer is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and offers several advantages, including minimal discomfort, quick recovery, and potentially lasting improvement in nasal symptoms. It is often recommended for individuals who have not responded adequately to other conservative treatments such as medications or allergy therapies.

As with any medical procedure, potential risks and benefits should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine if RhinAer is an appropriate treatment option for individual patients.

Common Throat & Neck Procedures

In flexible laryngoscopy, a think flexible fiberoptic view tube (called a laryngoscope) is passed through the nose and guided to the vocal cords (larynx).  This is a procedure that is routinely performed in the office by an ear, nose and throat physician to examine areas of a patient that can otherwise not be seen.  The inside of the nose is anesthetized with a topical spray prior to viewing.  This allows a comfortable experience.  It is used to help determined the cause of difficulty swallowing, breathing, coughing or hoarseness.  It is particularly helpful in evaluating voice problems.  The technique allows the physician to video the vocal cords, show their movement on the video screen and thereby better assess the source of the voice disorder.

Videostroboscopy is a diagnostic procedure used by MOSA to assess vocal cord function and diagnose voice disorders. During the procedure, a small, flexible endoscope with a camera is inserted through the nose or mouth to visualize the larynx (voice box). The camera captures high-speed, slow-motion images of the vocal cords vibrating during phonation (speech or singing), which are then displayed on a monitor. This allows MOSA to evaluate vocal cord movement, symmetry, and vibratory patterns with high precision. Videostroboscopy provides detailed information about vocal cord function, allowing for accurate diagnosis of voice disorders such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, or paralysis. It also helps in developing tailored treatment plans, including voice therapy, surgery, or other interventions, to improve vocal function and quality.

Throat endoscopy, also known as pharyngoscopy or laryngoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure performed by MOSA to examine the throat and voice box. During the procedure, a small, flexible endoscope with a camera is inserted through the nose or mouth to visualize the structures of the throat, including the pharynx (back of the throat) and larynx (voice box). This allows the MOSA to assess the health of the throat, identify any abnormalities, and evaluate conditions such as throat pain, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing. Throat endoscopy is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that provides valuable information for diagnosing and managing various throat disorders, including infections, inflammation, tumors, or structural abnormalities.

MOSA can perform throat biopsies to diagnose suspicious lesions, chronic symptoms, or throat cancer, obtaining tissue samples for microscopic examination. These biopsies are crucial for determining the nature of the lesion, distinguishing between benign and malignant conditions, and guiding appropriate treatment strategies. In cases of chronic throat symptoms or suspected throat cancer, biopsy results help confirm diagnoses, assess treatment responses, and monitor disease progression. Throat biopsies play a vital role in optimizing patient care by providing accurate diagnostic information and guiding tailored treatment plans.

Frenulotomy is a minor surgical procedure aimed at releasing or cutting a frenulum, a small band of tissue that connects two structures in the body, such as the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the upper lip to the gum. This procedure is commonly performed to correct conditions like tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) or lip-tie (labial frenulum), where the frenulum is unusually tight or restrictive, impairing normal movement or function. By surgically releasing the frenulum, frenulotomy can alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breastfeeding, speech impediments, or oral discomfort, allowing for improved oral mobility and function. Frenulotomy is typically performed as a quick and minimally invasive outpatient procedure, often under local anesthesia, with minimal risk of complications and rapid recovery for the patient.

MOSA can provide drainage for a tonsil abscess through a small incision. During this procedure, the patient is typically placed under local or general anesthesia to ensure comfort. The doctor uses a scalpel to make a small incision in the abscess to allow the pus to drain out. This helps to relieve pain and pressure and reduces the risk of complications such as the spread of infection.

Injection snoreplasty is a minimally invasive office procedure for patients with primary snoring. Developed by doctors in the US Army for soldiers with disruptive snoring, this procedure is effective in properly selected patients. Snoring is caused by vibration of the palate; the procedure involves injection of a stiffening agent into the soft palate just above the uvula (punching bag).  Over a period of several weeks, the tissues become stiff and snoring is diminished. Bed partners notice a marked reduction in snoring intensity. This procedure is well tolerated with most patients returning to work the next day.

Patients with loud snoring may have a long uvula. Treatment such as injection snoreplasty or other palatal stiffening procedures are not effective in this setting.  For patients with an excessively long uvula, partial uvulectomy can be an effective way to reduce snoring; this may be done in conjunction with injection snoreplasty if needed. Laser uvulectomy can be performed in the office under local anesthesia. Many patients can return to work within a few days, though the throat will be sore.

Tongue Base Radiofrequency Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring by reducing the size of the tongue base and soft tissue in the throat. During the procedure, a specialized electrode is inserted into the tongue base, and radiofrequency energy is delivered to the targeted tissues. This energy generates heat, which causes controlled thermal injury to the tissues, leading to tissue contraction and scarring. As a result, the tongue base becomes firmer and less prone to collapsing into the airway during sleep, thereby reducing airway obstruction and improving breathing. Tongue Base Radiofrequency Ablation is often performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia and may require multiple sessions for optimal results. It is considered a relatively safe and effective treatment option for select patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or snoring.

Neck biopsies can help diagnose various conditions, including infections, benign tumors, malignant tumors (such as lymphoma or metastatic cancer), or other inflammatory or autoimmune diseases affecting the neck and surrounding structures. The choice of biopsy method is determined by factors such as the size and location of the lesion, the suspected diagnosis, and the need for additional testing or treatment.

A neck skin lesion excision is a surgical procedure performed to remove abnormal or unwanted growths, such as moles, cysts, or skin tumors, from the skin of the neck, typically for diagnostic or cosmetic purposes, aiming to improve aesthetics or alleviate symptoms.

During an incision and drainage (I&D) procedure for a neck abscess, the area is first cleaned and sterilized, and local anesthesia may be administered to numb the surrounding tissue for patient comfort. The Doctor then makes a small incision or cut over the abscess to create an opening through which the pus can drain. Using sterile instruments, the doctor gently squeezes or applies pressure to the area to encourage the pus to drain out completely. In some cases, a small drainage tube may be inserted to ensure continued drainage and prevent re-accumulation of pus.

AT MOSA, YOUR WELL-BEING IS OUR PRIORITY

Taking your first step towards better ENT health is easy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to providing you with exceptional care and helping you  achieve optimal ear, nose, and throat health