Specialist Provides ENT, Head and Neck Surgical Services

Jennifer H. Judkins, MD is available to provide specialized services to patients at New London Hospital. Dr. Judkins is an otolaryngologist which, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, is the oldest medical specialty in the US. Otolaryngologists are physicans trained in the medical and surgical management and treatment of patients with diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related structures of the head and neck.

Otolaryngologists complete at least five years of surgical training, which consists of one year in general surgical training and four years in otolaryngology/head and neck surgery. Unlike other specialists, they are trained in both medicine and surgery.

Their special skills include diagnosing and managing diseases of the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, and pharynx (mouth and throat), as well as structures of the neck and face. Otolaryngologists diagnose, treat and manage disorders in both children and adults.

Common conditions and pathologies addressed by otolaryngologists include vocal cord polyps, cysts, nodules, sinus disorders, laryngeal cancer, palpillomas (growths which may or may not be benign), and voice misuse/abuse/overuse syndromes. In addition, otolaryngologists manage diseases of the larynx (voice box) and the upper digestive tract or esophagus, including voice and swallowing disorders.

Hearing loss, which affects one in ten North Americans, is a common condition addressed by otolaryngologists. They are trained in both the medical and surgical treatment of hearing, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain and facial and cranial nerve disorders.

Another frequent complaint addressed by otolaryngologists is chronic sinusitis which affects about 35 million people. Management of the nasal area includes allergies and sense of smell. Skin testing for allergies is one of the services offered by New London Hospital.

The head and neck area includes the important nerves that control sight, smell, hearing, and the face. In this area, otolaryngologists are trained to treat infectious diseases, both benign and malignant tumors, facial trauma, and deformities of the face.

In addition, otolaryngologists may pursue more extensive fellowship training in the subspecialty areas of pediatric otolaryngology, otology/neurotology (ears, balance and tinnitus), allergy, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, head and neck, laryngology (throat), and rhinology (nose).

Patients who feel thay may benefit from consultation with an ENT physician are advised to speak with their primary provider. Dr. Judkins’ New London Hospital office may be reached at 526-5408.

Dr. Judkins is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology.
Click here to read more about Dr. Judkins.

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