ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) Surgery

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this topic, learners should be able to:

1. Identify common ENT surgical conditions and their indications.

2. Understand surgical techniques for ear, nose, and throat procedures.

3. Recognize post-operative complications and nursing priorities.

4. Apply perioperative care principles specific to ENT surgery.

 Key Glossary Terms

1. Tonsillectomy

• Definition: Surgical removal of the tonsils

• Indications: Recurrent tonsillitis, obstructive sleep apnea, peritonsillar abscess

• Post-Op Considerations: Bleeding monitoring, pain control, hydration, airway management

2. Adenoidectomy

• Definition: Surgical removal of adenoids

• Indications: Obstructive sleep apnea, recurrent infections

• Post-Op Considerations: Airway monitoring, bleeding, hydration

3. Myringotomy with Tympanostomy Tube

• Definition: Incision in the tympanic membrane to drain fluid and place a ventilation tube

• Indications: Recurrent otitis media with effusion, hearing loss

• Post-Op Considerations: Ear protection, infection prevention, monitoring for tube blockage

4. Septoplasty / Rhinoplasty

• Definition: Surgical correction of nasal septum or cosmetic reshaping

• Indications: Deviated septum causing obstruction, nasal deformities

• Post-Op Considerations: Nasal packing, bleeding monitoring, pain management

5. Laryngectomy / Tracheostomy

• Definition: Partial or total removal of the larynx or creation of airway via trachea

• Indications: Laryngeal cancer, airway obstruction

• Post-Op Considerations: Airway management, suctioning, infection prevention, speech rehabilitation

6. Post-Operative Complications

• Bleeding (especially after tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy)

• Infection (otitis, sinusitis, wound infection)

• Airway obstruction

• Dysphagia or voice changes

• Tube blockage in ear surgeries

7. Nursing & Medical Student Focus

• Nursing: Airway monitoring, bleeding observation, pain management, hydration, infection prevention

• Medical Students: Understand ENT anatomy, surgical indications, post-op complications, and emergency signs

8. ENT Surgery Mnemonics

• “AIRWAY” for post-op ENT care:

  • A – Airway monitoring

  • I – Infection prevention

  • R – Rest and hydration

  • W – Wound care

  • A – Assess for bleeding

  • Y – Your education to patient

• “HEAR” for ear surgery monitoring:

  • H – Hearing assessment

  • E – Ear protection

  • A – Avoid water exposure

  • R – Report discharge or infection

 Tables

Table 1: Common ENT Surgeries

Table 2: Post-Operative Nursing Care in ENT Surgery