From Dr. Anil Lalwani at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City
In November 2013, I traveled to Anatalya, Turkey for the 29th Politzer Society Meeting. I was so fortunate when on the bus from the airport to the conference center, I ran into Dr. Anil Lalwani from Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Lalwani is an otologist, (an Ear Nose and Throat physician who specializes in the treatment in inner ear problems), and Chief of the Division of Otology, Neurology, and Scull Base Surgery. I was asking him, “So what’s new? Do you know of any exciting new research or treatments on the horizon that might be able to help my patients in the future?” I was so happy to hear him say the word, “YES”! Dr. Lalwani described to me the exciting research that is coming out of his lab at Columbia. He and his team are developing tiny needles that can be used to access the inner ear. One application for these needles is for diagnosing disorders that may be happening in the ear. These needles will be able to collect inner ear tissues and fluids, which can then be analyzed to diagnose signs of disease. Another application of the needles is to deliver medications directly to the inner ear, for example, aspirin. Currently, medications to treat inner ear problems are given systemically by mouth, by IV, or they diffuse into the inner ear when injected into the middle ear. Being able to deliver medication directly to the inner ear cochlea or to the vestibular balance system is indeed an advancement in treatment.
I will keep you posted on Dr. Lalwani’s research developments, and when this new technology will be ready and available for patients. If you live in the New York City area, and need an excellent physician, with the tools at his fingertips to diagnose and treat your problems, I highly recommend Dr. Anil Lalwani. His contact number is 212-305-5820. He will also be able to help you find the right audiologist, or physical therapist to meet your needs.
Turkish coffee break-
Politzer Society Meeting 2013, Turkey
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