Dr. Thomas Wayne Matthews – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Calgary, AB

As an experienced Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), Dr. Thomas Wayne Matthews offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing at a clinic within Calgary, AB, he serves the local community with a focus on providing high-quality ENT services. All his practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring patient safety and professional excellence.

Dr. Matthews specializes in comprehensive general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, handling a wide spectrum of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. With extensive post-graduate training, he is well-equipped to diagnose and manage complex ENT cases in both adults and children, emphasizing personalized care and evidence-based treatment approaches.

Committed to patient education and collaborative care, Dr. Matthews strives to empower his patients with knowledge about their conditions and treatment options. He is dedicated to delivering high-quality ENT care in Calgary, communicating fluently in English, and maintaining a compassionate, professional approach to all his patients.

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

Specific Pediatric ENT Conditions

• Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis & Sinusitis: Allergic reactions affecting the nasal passages and sinuses in children, requiring age-appropriate management strategies.
• Enlarged Tonsils & Adenoids causing Airway Obstruction or Sleep Apnea: Swollen tonsils and adenoids in children that can block the airway, leading to snoring, mouth breathing, or sleep-disordered breathing.
• Recurrent Acute Otitis Media in Children: Frequent middle ear infections in children, often leading to considerations for ear tube placement.
• Congenital Neck Masses (e.g., Branchial Cleft Cysts, Thyroglossal Duct Cysts, Hemangiomas, Lymphatic Malformations): Lumps or growths present at birth or appearing in early childhood in the neck region, requiring careful diagnosis.

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. Thomas Matthews or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• 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.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• 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.
• 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. Matthews 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. Matthews'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 Alberta (CPSA). A referral may be required.

Dr. Matthews primarily practices at a clinic situated in the southwest Calgary neighborhood of Bankview, in the South Calgary (Marda Loop area). The location is conveniently close to Calgary Tower and connects easily from the north and south via major roads. Patients can access the clinic via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Matthews, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Matthews are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the clinic if you have questions.

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

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Matthews. 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.

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 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. Matthews will provide detailed post-operative instructions and discuss the expected recovery period for your specific procedure.

My child gets frequent tonsillitis. What are the treatment options?

Recurrent tonsillitis can be managed in several ways. For acute bacterial infections, antibiotics are often prescribed. If infections are very frequent (e.g., multiple episodes per year), severe, cause breathing problems or difficulty swallowing, or don't respond well to antibiotics, a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be recommended by an ENT specialist. Dr. Matthews can assess your child's specific situation, including the frequency and severity of episodes, and discuss the best course of action.

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

C-2407 Richmond Rd SW, ENT Clinic
Calgary, AB T2T 5E5

Phone: (403) 944-4501 | Fax: (403) 210-9752

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Matthews is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=556b5138-723e-4748-8c46-c5f41503b331&i=947