Ear, Nose & Throat

Ear, Nose and Throat problems are common and can cause significant symptoms. Whilst most conditions can be managed in Primary Care, the failure of conservative treatment may require referral to a specialist ENT Clinic.

We accept referrals to our specialist ENT clinics throughout Greater Manchester and Cheshire. The clinics are run by experienced Consultant ENT surgeons who are specialists in their field. We deal with adult ENT conditions and arrange further investigations such as diagnostic tests if indicated. There is an onward pathway if surgery is required.

Our Consultants provide a comprehensive initial consultation which may include minor procedures such as flexible laryngoscopy, nasendoscopy, microscopic ear suction and nasal cautery if indicated.

Audiology

A hearing assessment is performed to assess the function and level of your hearing. The assessment routinely combines two tests: a Pure Tone Audiogram (Audiometry) and a Tympanogram (Tympanometry). It is performed by an audiologist or hearing specialist in a quiet or soundproof room.

Medical History & Discussion: The Audiologist will review your referral and may ask about any hearing concerns, medical history or other ear-related symptoms.

Physical Examination: Prior to the hearing tests, the Audiologist will examine the ear both inside and out using an Otoscope. This procedure is referred to as Otoscopy.

Pure-tone Audiometry (Main Hearing Test):

• You will wear headphones and be given a response button. The audiologist will play a series of beeps and tones at different frequencies and volumes in each ear.
• You will respond to the tones by pressing the response button.

This determines the softest sound you can hear at each frequency (your hearing threshold).

Bone Conduction Test: This is the second phase of Audiometry. It involves placing a small device behind your ear that vibrates to test inner ear function. The patient will respond using the response button as previously.

Tympanometry (Middle Ear Test, if required): A small probe is placed in your ear to check eardrum movement and middle ear function. It can help detect issues like middle ear fluid or a perforated eardrum.

Results & Recommendations:

• The audiologist will review your audiogram (the chart showing your hearing levels) and may discuss the findings.
• The test results will be sent to the referring ENT Consultant, who will advise on any further treatment.
• The Hearing Assessment usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes.

Contact us on: 0161 523 8720