Dr. David Ronald Schramm – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Ottawa, ON

As an experienced Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (commonly known as an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon), Dr. David Ronald Schramm offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing at a clinic within Ottawa, ON, he serves the local community with a focus on providing high-quality ENT care. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective patient management. Dr. Schramm's role encompasses a broad spectrum of general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing conditions affecting both adults and children, with a focus on ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck issues.

Dr. Schramm graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1983 and has been practicing as a specialist in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery since 1988, accumulating over 36 years of dedicated experience. He is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.

Driven by a commitment to patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach, Dr. Schramm strives to deliver personalized and effective treatment plans. He is dedicated to providing accessible, compassionate, and high-quality ENT services in Ottawa. He communicates fluently in English, ensuring clear and thorough patient consultations and discussions.

Dr. David Schramm manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Common Nose and Sinus Conditions

• Nasal Fractures & Trauma: A break or crack in the bones of the nose, often resulting from an injury, which can affect breathing and appearance.
• Non-Allergic Rhinitis (Vasomotor Rhinitis): Nasal congestion, sneezing, or runny nose not caused by allergies, often triggered by environmental irritants, weather changes, or certain medications.
• Sinus Headaches: Headaches characterized by pain and pressure in the face, often related to sinus inflammation or infection.
• Nasal Polyps: Soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses, often linked to chronic inflammation from asthma, allergies, or infections.
• Fungal Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses caused by a fungal infection, which can range from non-invasive to invasive forms.

Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)

• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders (ENT Assessment for Related Symptoms): Problems affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, where an ENT may evaluate related symptoms like ear pain or facial pain.
• Salivary Gland Infections (Sialadenitis) & Stones (Sialolithiasis): Inflammation or infection of the salivary glands (like parotid or submandibular) or the formation of stones within their ducts, causing pain and swelling.
• Thyroid Nodules & Goiter: Lumps (nodules) in the thyroid gland or overall enlargement of the thyroid (goiter), which may require evaluation for cancer or hormonal dysfunction.
• Hyperparathyroidism & Parathyroid Adenoma/Carcinoma: Overactivity of the parathyroid glands, often due to a benign tumor (adenoma), leading to high blood calcium levels; rarely, cancer can occur.
• Branchial Cleft Cysts & Sinuses: Congenital (present at birth) pockets or tracts in the neck resulting from incomplete development of embryonic structures.

This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. David Schramm or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
• Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Schramm offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Schramm's areas of focus.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). A referral may be required.

Dr. Schramm's practice is primarily based at a modern outpatient clinic located in the Hintonburg neighborhood of Ottawa, close to Ottawa City Hall. The clinic is easily accessible via public transportation, including the O-Train LRT and local bus routes operated by OC Transpo. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for those arriving by car.

Are services from Dr. Schramm, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Schramm are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Schramm, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Schramm. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.

What kind of post-operative care instructions can I expect after an ENT surgery?

Post-operative care instructions will be specific to the type of surgery performed. Generally, they may include information on pain management, diet restrictions (e.g., soft foods after tonsillectomy), activity limitations, wound care (if applicable), use of medications (like antibiotics or pain relievers), nasal saline rinses (after sinus surgery), and signs of potential complications to watch for. You will also be given follow-up appointment details. It's crucial to follow these instructions carefully for optimal healing.

I have a thyroid nodule. What does an ENT specialist do?

If you have a thyroid nodule, an ENT specialist (Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon) like Dr. Schramm will typically evaluate it through a physical exam, review any prior imaging (like ultrasound), and may order blood tests for thyroid function. A key diagnostic step is often a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, where a small sample of cells is taken from the nodule under ultrasound guidance to determine if it's benign or cancerous. Based on these findings, Dr. Schramm will discuss whether monitoring, further testing, or surgical removal (thyroidectomy) is indicated.

I've had a hoarse voice for several weeks. What could be causing this?

Persistent hoarseness (lasting more than 2-3 weeks) should be evaluated by an ENT specialist. Common causes include laryngitis (viral or bacterial), voice overuse or misuse, acid reflux (LPR), vocal cord nodules or polyps, smoking, allergies, or less commonly, more serious conditions like vocal cord paralysis or laryngeal cancer. Dr. Schramm will likely perform a laryngoscopy to visualize your vocal cords and determine the cause of your hoarseness.

737 Parkdale Ave
Ottawa, ON K1Y 1J8

Phone: (613) 798-5555 | Fax: (613) 761-4356

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Schramm is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Schramm-David-Ronald/0038904-52880