Physicians What is an Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgeon? Otolaryngology (pronounced oh/toe/lair/in/goll/oh/jee) is the oldest medical specialty in the United States. Otolaryngologists are physicians 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. They are commonly referred to as ENT physicians. Their special skills include diagnosing and managing diseases of the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, and upper pharynx (mouth and throat), as well as structures of the neck and face. Otolaryngologists diagnose, treat, and manage specialty-specific disorders, as well as many primary care problems in both children and adults. Otolaryngologists can begin practicing after completing up to 15 years of college and post-graduate training. To qualify for certification by the American Board of Otolaryngology, an applicant must first complete college, medical school, and at least five years of specialty training. Next, the physician must pass the American Board of Otolaryngology examination. Some otolaryngologists pursue a one- or two- year fellowship for more extensive training in one of seven subspecialty areas. Sub-specialty areas are pediatric otolaryngology, otology/neurotology (ears, balance, and tinnitus), allergy, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, head and neck, laryngology (throat), and rhinology (nose). The physicians at Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Wisconsin are trained in both medicine and surgery. Typically patients' primary care physicians will refer them when ear, nose, throat, or head/neck surgery is needed. Physicians' Hours 9:00am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:30pm. Schedules are subject to change.     Medical Services Physicians - What is Otolaryngology, Photos and Bios Patient Services - Treatments and Procedures (sinus, tonsils, snoring & sleep disorders, ears, throat/voice) Patient Education - Medical Links, What Our Patients Say Surgery - Pre and Post-Op Instructions, Hospital Affiliations FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions Patient Forms   Robert J. Bechard, M.D. Ripon College, B.S. (Chemistry-Biology), 1984 University of Wisconsin Medical School, M.D., 1989 Surgery Internship, Lutheran Hospital, 1989-90 Residency Otolaryngology, University of Wisconsin Hospital, 1990-94 Asst. Professorship, University of Wisconsin Medical School Professional Interests Head and Neck Cancer Surgery Ear Surgery Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Pediatric Otolaryngology   Robert B. Prehn, M.D. University of Wisconsin, B.S. (Zoology & Parasitology), 1987 University of Wisconsin Medical School, M.D., 1991 Surgery Internship, Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Ctr., 1991-92 Residency in Otolaryngology, University of Wisconsin Hospital, 1992-96 Asst. Professorship, University of Wisconsin Medical School Professional Interests Head and Neck Cancer Ear surgery Pediatric Otolaryngology Sinus Surgery   Christopher J. Keller, M.D. University of Notre Dame, B.S. (Pre-Professional Studies), 1984 University of Wisconsin Medical School, M.D., 1989 Surgery Internship, Medical Center of Vermont, 1989-90 Residency in Otolaryngology, Medical Center of Vermont/Dartmouth, 1990-95 Professional Interests Head and Neck Cancer Surgery Ear Surgery Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Thyroid Surgery Pediatric Otolaryngology   Larry K. Burton, Jr., M.D. University of Missouri, B.A. (Conservatory of Music), 1985 University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine, M.D., 1998 Surgery Internship, Mayo Clinic, 1998-90 Residency in Otolaryngology, Mayo Clinic, 1999-03 Instructor of Otolaryngology, Mayo Medical School, 2002-03 Professional Interests Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Minimal Access Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery Pediatric Otolaryngology Facial Reconstructive Surgery Hearing Restorative Surgery Head and Neck Cancer Surgery International Volunteer Medical Missions - Craniofacial Surgery   Home   |   Terms of Use   |   HIPAA   |   Financial Policy © 2006 Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Wisconsin