Ear, Nose & Throat

Alvarado Hospital's state-of-the-art Ears, Nose & Throat Program treats disorders of the ears, nose and throat, including conditions of the head and neck.

Our physicians specialize in more than a dozen areas including otolaryngology, otology, neurotology (the study of complex ear and skull base disorders), surgery of the head and neck, nasal and sinus disorders, obstructive sleep apnea treatment, voice and swallowing problems, audiology, and upper airway obstruction.

Our specialists routinely handle cases such as infected ears, adenoidectomies, tonsillectomies, nose bleeds, sinus disease, snoring and sleep disorders. Alvarado Hospital is the first in San Diego to offer the FDA-approved treatment for obstructive sleep apnea called Inspire Therapy.

Watch a video about new treatment for sleep apnea

Patients with vestibular balance disorders come to our program from all over the world to benefit from our advanced diagnostic and treatment procedures and extensive experience.

Alvarado Hospital also offers one of the few highly specialized programs in the western United States for the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of skull-base disease. The skull-base surgery program is dedicated to the surgical, medical and rehabilitative management of difficult-to-reach lesions and diseases of the cranial base.

The surgical methods and advanced imaging techniques used by our specialists may reduce or eliminate many complications previously associated with complex skull-base surgery, helping to preserve function, provide optimal reconstruction, and rehabilitate and improve the patient's quality of life. Collectively and individually, these Alvarado specialists offer considerable experience and sophistication.

Patients are screened and evaluated by a team from the fields of otolaryngology, neurosurgery, oral/maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, neuroradiology, oncology and radiation therapy. Results are reviewed and interpreted by a team member who develops a plan designed to meet the needs of the individual patient. If surgery is considered appropriate, a clinical pathway is created to define the role of each member of the surgical process. The procedure may include angiography, laser therapy and advanced techniques, such as frameless stereotaxy, if necessary, to assist with tumor removal. Post-operative rehabilitation facilities on the hospital campus help hasten the patient’s recovery and return to a quality lifestyle.

All recommendations, including adjunct treatment modalities, are discussed with the patient, family and referring physician. Digital online film transmissions are available for referring physicians.

Find a Physician

Alvarado’s Physician Referral Service can help you find a specialist who meets your needs. To find a specialist, simply click on the Physician Finder, call (800) ALVARADO (800-258-2723) to allow a friendly customer service representative to connect you with a primary care physician or specialist.