Dr. Robert Brian Tatham – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Scarborough, ON

As an experienced Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), Dr. Robert Brian Tatham offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing at a clinic in Scarborough, ON, he serves the local community with a patient-focused and compassionate approach. Dr. Tatham's practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective care for all his patients. His role encompasses providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting both adults and children.

Dr. Tatham graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1980, and has been practicing as a specialist in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery since 1986, accumulating over 38 years of experience. He is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, reflecting his dedication to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Tatham is committed to providing high-quality ENT care in Scarborough, ensuring that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs. He communicates fluently in English, fostering clear and compassionate interactions with his patients and their families.

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

Common Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Conditions

• Chronic Cough (when related to upper airway or reflux): A persistent cough lasting eight weeks or longer, which may be linked to post-nasal drip, reflux, or laryngeal irritation.
• Acute & Chronic Tonsillitis / Adenoiditis (Recurrent): Inflammation or infection of the tonsils or adenoids, which can be recurrent and cause sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues.
• Peritonsillar Abscess (Quinsy): A collection of pus that forms behind one of the tonsils, typically as a complication of bacterial tonsillitis.
• Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulties): Difficulty or pain when swallowing foods or liquids, which can stem from various problems in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
• Vocal Cord Nodules, Polyps, Cysts & Granulomas: Benign growths or lesions on the vocal cords that can cause hoarseness and other voice problems, often related to voice overuse or irritation.

Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)

• 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.
• Skin Cancers of the Head & Neck (Basal Cell, Squamous Cell, Melanoma): Malignant growths on the skin of the head and neck, which are common due to sun exposure and require specialized treatment.
• Dermoid Cysts of the Head and Neck: Benign congenital cysts containing skin structures, which can occur in various locations on the head and neck.
• Laryngeal Cancer (Cancer of the Voice Box): Malignant tumors developing in the tissues of the larynx (voice box), often causing hoarseness or breathing difficulties.
• 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.

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. Robert Tatham 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 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.
• Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• 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. Tatham 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. Tatham'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. Tatham's practice is based at a modern clinic located in the central Scarborough area, close to local points of interest such as Scarborough Town Centre and Scarborough General Hospital. The facility is easily accessible via public transit, including multiple bus routes and the Scarborough RT line. Patients can find convenient parking options nearby, and the facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all patients.

Are services from Dr. Tatham, 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. Tatham 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. Tatham, 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. Tatham. 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 does an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon (ENT Doctor) like Dr. Tatham do?

An Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, often called an ENT doctor, like Dr. Tatham, 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.

When should I consider seeing an ENT specialist?

You might consider seeing an ENT specialist if you experience persistent issues such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness or balance problems, chronic sinusitis or nasal congestion, recurrent nosebleeds, allergies affecting the upper airway, voice changes or hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, snoring or suspected sleep apnea, or lumps in the neck or head region. Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to an ENT like Dr. Tatham is appropriate.

3030 Lawrence Ave E
Scarborough, ON M1P 2T7

Phone: (416) 289-2021

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Tatham 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/Tatham-Robert-Brian/0027734-32557