Ear, Nose and Throat (Otolaryngology)

While every child is different, there are certain age-appropriate hearing, speech and language milestones that can help parents and doctors recognize a concern. Early diagnosis of a problem is important, and even common conditions can become more serious if left untreated.

A pediatric ENT is also trained to distinguish illnesses or disorders in children whose symptoms may be different from symptoms in adults. For more information, visit the Ear, Nose, and Throat Online Resources page.

The division performs diagnostic testing and evaluations for common and chronic problems, such as recurring ear infections. Division programs provide advanced, focused care for specific conditions:

• Airway Clinic
• Cochlear Implant Program
• Oromotor and Drooling Clinic
• Voice Clinic

If surgery is required, patients can be seen at the downtown hospital. Outpatient procedures can be performed at the Montgomery Country Ambulatory Surgery Center or at our affiliated private practice in Fairfax, Children’s National Specialists of Virginia, LLC.

Our team of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists includes:

• Eight surgeons
• Pediatric anesthesiologists
• Two physician assistants
• Specially trained nurses

Children’s National is the only hospital in the Washington, DC, area that guarantees your child’s anesthesia is administered by a fellowship-trained pediatric anesthesiologist at any time of the day or night – 24/7. Pediatric anesthesiologists are physicians who complete specialized fellowship training in pediatric anesthesia, training beyond the regular course of instruction for an anesthesiologist.

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In addition to the support from our doctors, nurses and medical staff, Children’s National created the Parent’s Letter Project for families to support each other. We encourage families to read letters from other parents with a shared experience at the hospital. Read their letters — The Parent’s Letter Project

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The research conducted by Children’s National in partnership with government health agencies and other organizations, is leading to improved care and health outcomes for children.

On the upper floors of Children’s National Medical Center, research is taking place at the Children’s Research Institute. Research at the hospital makes the translation of the latest advances in care to practice much easier. The Division of Otolaryngology currently hosts two physician researchers studying chronic ear conditions in children.

To learn about enrolling your child in a research study or clinical trial, speak with your child’s physician.

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