Dr. Kiersten Danielle Pianosi – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Vancouver, BC

As an experienced Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), Dr. Kiersten Danielle Pianosi offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing at a clinic in Vancouver, BC, she serves the local community with dedication and professionalism. Dr. Pianosi's practice is aligned with the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality patient care. She focuses on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting adults and children.

Dr. Pianosi graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Dalhousie University in 2016 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming her expertise and commitment to her specialty.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. She is committed to providing high-quality ENT care in Vancouver and speaks English fluently, ensuring clear communication with her patients.

Dr. Kiersten Pianosi 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

• Sinus Headaches: Headaches characterized by pain and pressure in the face, often related to sinus inflammation or infection.
• Fungal Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses caused by a fungal infection, which can range from non-invasive to invasive forms.
• 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.
• Nasal Fractures & Trauma: A break or crack in the bones of the nose, often resulting from an injury, which can affect breathing and appearance.
• Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) evaluation: A rare, controversial condition where patients experience symptoms of nasal obstruction and dryness despite having surgically widened nasal passages.

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. Kiersten Pianosi or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
• 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.
• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• 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.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Pianosi 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. Pianosi'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 British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required.

Dr. Kiersten Danielle Pianosi practices primarily at a clinic situated in the Shaughnessy and Arbutus Ridge South neighbourhoods of Vancouver, BC. The location is conveniently close to the Vancouver Art Gallery and Robson Square, accessible via TransLink including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Pianosi, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Pianosi are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic if you have questions.

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

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Pianosi. 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 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. Pianosi 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. Pianosi will discuss whether monitoring, further testing, or surgical removal (thyroidectomy) is indicated.

What is the typical recovery time for common ENT surgeries like tonsillectomy or sinus surgery?

Recovery times vary depending on the specific surgery and the individual patient. For a tonsillectomy, expect a sore throat for 1-2 weeks, with gradual improvement. For endoscopic sinus surgery, most people feel significantly better within 1-2 weeks, but some nasal stuffiness or drainage can persist for a bit longer, and full healing can take a few months. Dr. Pianosi will provide detailed post-operative instructions and discuss the expected recovery period for your specific procedure.

How are allergies related to ENT problems?

Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.

What does an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon (ENT Doctor) like Dr. Pianosi do?

An Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, often called an ENT doctor, like Dr. Pianosi, is a medical doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. This includes medical treatments and surgical procedures for hearing disorders, sinus problems, voice issues, sleep apnea, throat infections, and tumors of the head and neck region.

4480 Oak St, Division of Otolaryngology, B.C. Children's Hospital
Vancouver, BC V6H 3V4

Phone: (604) 875-2113

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Pianosi is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/380194/Pianosi%2CKiersten