ENT & Allergy Associates specializes in assessing and addressing voice and swallowing issues and advancing knowledge on these topics through education. Our team of experts at the center has spearheaded a range of office-based procedures for diagnosis and treatment.
ENT & Allergy Associates offers convenient and non-invasive swallowing evaluations, which include three tests that can be performed in-office without the need for X-rays. If you have difficulty swallowing liquids, food, or medications, experience frequent choking during meals, or have a history of swallowing difficulties due to acid reflux disease (heartburn), Parkinson's Disease, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, or ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), it may benefit you to undergo a Swallowing Examination. Swallowing problems can also arise after sickness, surgery, or changes in medications.
At ENT & Allergy Associates, we use two techniques to diagnose and treat swallowing disorders:
Transnasal Flexible Laryngoscopy (TFL)
To examine the larynx and throat, we use Transnasal Flexible Laryngoscopy (TFL), a non-invasive technique that utilizes a thin, flexible endoscope passed through the nose to provide a magnified view of the larynx.
Transnasal Esophagoscopy (TNE)
To examine the esophagus, esophagoscopy is performed, which includes two techniques: rigid esophagoscopy in the operating room performed under general anesthesia, or flexible esophagoscopy in the endoscopy suite performed under intravenous or conscious sedation by a gastroenterologist. Our doctors perform transnasal esophagoscopy, or TNE, in the office setting with immediate results, less cost, and you can return to work the same day after the examination since no intravenous sedatives are used.
With both of those other techniques, the esophagoscope is placed via the mouth into the esophagus. In both cases, the anesthesia required to perform the procedure generally requires that the patient loses a day from work. With the transnasal technique, only topical anesthesia is required so that the patient may return to work shortly after the procedure is completed.
Good news for those who suffer from swallowing disorders: through cutting-edge diagnostic testing, the team at ENT & Allergy Associates is able to accurately diagnose and treat even the most complex of cases. No longer do you have to suffer in silence, as our professionals are passionate about helping you regain control of your life.
With over 25 years of experience under our belts and a drive to stay up to date with the latest advancements in medical technology, there is no better team to seek out when it comes to addressing swallowing disorders.
Take the first step towards improved quality of life and reach out to ENT & Allergy Associates. You deserve to enjoy every meal and indulge in your favorite foods without fear or discomfort, and we are here to help make that a reality.
Patient Stories
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"I am taking the time to write this review because I was blown away by this practice. Dr. Vastola was so personable and SO good with my newborn. He tried to make her as comfortable as possible and really treated her like she was the patient, not me which I appreciated because most doctors I’ve been to barely interacted with my daughter. So sweet and so knowledgeable- would highly recommend!"
- Stephanie T. -
"Dr. Ciecko was absolutely wonderful with our very fidgety, high energy 4 year old. Explained everything to us. Let him know what he was going to do before examining him so he wouldn't be afraid. Did not rush us or our questions. We were very pleased with our experience with him. The office is well organized and clean also."
- Denise U. -
"I've been going for a couple years for allergy shots. The staff is very nice and polite. I hardly wait wish I love the most"
- Rocio B.
Less Sick Days, More Living
