otoloji

Otoloji is the branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ear. It encompasses the study of the external ear, middle ear, and inner ear, as well as the auditory nerve and related structures. Otologists are medical doctors who specialize in this field and are often referred to as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists.

The external ear includes the pinna and the external auditory canal. Disorders of the external ear can include infections, tumors, and trauma. The middle ear is the space between the eardrum and the inner ear, containing the ossicles (malleus, incus, and stapes) that transmit sound vibrations. Middle ear disorders can result from infections, fluid buildup, or structural abnormalities. The inner ear is responsible for balance and hearing, and its structures include the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals. Inner ear disorders can lead to hearing loss, vertigo, and tinnitus.

Otologists use various diagnostic tools to assess ear function, including otoscopy (visual examination of the ear canal), audiometry (measurement of hearing), and imaging studies such as CT scans and MRI. Treatment options depend on the specific disorder and may include medication, surgery, or other interventions. Common procedures performed by otologists include myringotomy (drainage of fluid from the middle ear), tympanoplasty (repair of the eardrum), and cochlear implantation for severe hearing loss.

Otology is an essential field in medicine, addressing a wide range of conditions that affect hearing and balance. Advances in technology and surgical techniques continue to improve outcomes for patients with ear-related disorders.