Faruque Riffat is an Otolaryngologist based in the Department Of Otolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery at Westmead, NSW, Australia.
In simple terms, this is the kind of doctor who looks after problems of the head and neck. That can include things around the throat, voice box and mouth, as well as issues with the nose and sinuses. Over time, care needs can range from ongoing irritation and sores to more serious conditions that need surgery and follow-up.
At Westmead, Dr Riffat’s work covers a mix of cancer care and other ENT conditions. This includes throat cancer, tongue cancer, sinus cancer, and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). There are also cases involving laryngeal cancer. Treatment may involve procedures such as endoscopy, and in some cases surgery like laryngectomy. Dry mouth and long-lasting mouth ulcers or sores can also be part of the picture.
Voice problems are another area, including spasmodic dysphonia. Salivary gland conditions are also seen, such as sialadenitis and salivary gland tumours. People with issues around the thyroid and parathyroid may also be referred for care, including thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy. At times, infections and inflammation can be a big part of the work too, like perichondritis, necrotizing fasciitis, and mediastinitis.
There are also less common conditions managed through the ENT team. Examples include cavernous lymphangioma, hemangioma, and bone tumour work. Depending on the situation, treatment may involve surgery and planned aftercare. If a patient needs a feeding tube or support during recovery, gastrostoÂmy can be part of the pathway.
Information on formal education, research, and clinical trials isn’t listed here. What is clear is the broad range of head, neck and throat conditions treated in the Westmead otolaryngology service, with a focus on practical diagnosis and treatment planning for each person’s situation.