Dr. Gavin Arne Rukholm – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Cobourg, ON

As an experienced Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), Dr. Gavin Arne Rukholm offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing at Guelph General Hospital in Cobourg, ON, he serves the local community with a commitment to high standards and patient-centered care. Dr. Rukholm adheres strictly to the guidelines and standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective treatment for all patients. His focus is on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting both adults and children.

Dr. Rukholm graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 2008.0 (Canada) and has been practicing as a specialist in Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor for over 11 years, since 2013. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist, ensuring his expertise meets the rigorous standards of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Rukholm is dedicated to delivering high-quality ENT services in Cobourg, fostering a reassuring environment for his patients. He is fluent in English and French, facilitating clear communication and personalized care for diverse patient populations.

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

Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)

• Hyperthyroidism / Hypothyroidism (Surgical Management Aspects): Conditions of overactive (hyper) or underactive (hypo) thyroid function, where an ENT surgeon may be involved for surgical treatment like thyroidectomy.
• Lymphadenopathy (Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Neck): Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, which can be a sign of infection, inflammation, or, less commonly, cancer.
• Thyroglossal Duct Cysts: A congenital cyst typically found in the midline of the neck, arising from remnants of the thyroid gland's developmental path.
• 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.

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. Gavin Rukholm or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• 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.
• 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.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Rukholm 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. Rukholm'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. Rukholm's practice is primarily based at Guelph General Hospital, conveniently located near the central Cobourg neighborhood of Cobourg. The hospital is easily accessible from nearby points of interest such as Victoria Park and Cobourg Marina. The facility can be reached via local public transit options, making it accessible for most patients. The hospital premises are wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for patients attending appointments.

Are services from Dr. Rukholm, 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. Rukholm 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. Rukholm, 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. Rukholm. 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.

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. Rukholm will likely perform a laryngoscopy to visualize your vocal cords and determine the cause of your hoarseness.

Guelph General Hospital
101-1005 Elgin St W
Cobourg, ON K9A 5J4

Phone: (289) 252-1851 | Fax: (289) 252-1569

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rukholm 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/Rukholm-Gavin-Arne/0250114-88649