Zacharias Kalentakis
I am writing to introduce myself as a Specialist ENT Surgeon with a dedicated subspecialty interest in rhinology, endoscopic ear surgery (including minimally invasive approaches to the middle ear), and salivary gland pathology with a focus on sialendoscopy.
My clinical practice encompasses the full breadth of general ENT, but I have developed particular expertise in managing complex nasal and sinus conditions, including functional and aesthetic septorhinoplasty, endoscopic sinus surgery, and management of nasal polyposis. I am also experienced in endoscopic otologic procedures, offering patients less invasive alternatives to traditional ear surgery, which often results in quicker recovery and reduced morbidity.
In addition, I provide advanced diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients with obstructive and inflammatory salivary gland disorders. Sialendoscopy, a minimally invasive technique that allows direct visualization and treatment of ductal pathology, plays a central role in my approach to recurrent glandular swellings and sialolithiasis.
Sessions
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a complex autosomal recessive multisystem disorder characterized by defective chloride ion transport, resulting in thick mucus secretions primarily affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and reproductive systems but also with frequent otorhinolaryngological (ENT) involvement, often underrecognized in clinical practice. It is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Otorhinolaryngological (ENT) involvement significantly contributes to morbidity among CF patients, commonly presenting with chronic rhinosinusitis, nasal polyposis, and conductive hearing impairment. This review explores ENT manifestations associated with CF in detail, examining pathophysiological mechanisms, current diagnostic methods, and contemporary therapeutic strategies, including emerging treatmentsand collaborative interdisciplinary management. This manuscript presents a structured ENT clinical algorithm based on the CFTR acronym—Conductive hearing, Functional nose, Throat, and Respiratory integration—to guide systematic assessment and interdisciplinary management. Drawing from contemporary literature and clinical experience, the CFTR ENT algorithm provides a practical framework for early detection, evaluation, and referral, with pediatric and adult-specific considerations. It aims to support ENT specialists, pulmonologists, and CF care teams in improving patient outcomes through integrated, symptom-specific intervention.
Barriers and enablers to referral of older adults to hearing care