Medicare Procedure and Patient Information
2021 Medicare Procedure Volume
Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO for Medicare patients.
42 |
Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO is an otolaryngologist in Greensboro, NC specializing in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat). She graduated from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB), College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2016 and has 8 years of experience. Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO is affiliated with Wake Forest Baptist Health and WAKE FOREST HEALTH NETWORK LLC.
1132 N Church Street Suite 200
Greensboro, NC 27401
Thyroid Problems
Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.
When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:
Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.
Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.
Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.
The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.
Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.
Tonsillectomy
Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove both tonsils and is most widely used to treat tonsillitis (tonsil inflammation), which occurs when the tonsils (two tissue glands in the back of the throat) become infected and enlarged. Sleep disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea are frequently caused by tonsilitis. Similar conditions that tonsillectomy may treat include recurring throat infections (6 or more per year) and obstructed breathing from enlarged tonsils that block the airway.
Tonsillectomies are usually performed on children; however, many adults also undergo the procedure. A tonsillectomy generally only lasts for about half an hour following the administration of anesthesia. The otolaryngologist (ENT) or surgeon performing a tonsillectomy may employ a variety of medical techniques, such as:
Patients are typically able to return home shortly after having their tonsils removed. Tonsillectomy recovery time may range from around ten days to two weeks. During this time, it is common for patients to have a sore throat, neck pain, and a hoarse voice. Patients are advised to consume soft foods such as ice cream and applesauce to avoid further throat irritation. After recovering from tonsillectomy, many patients experience improved breathing, reduced irritation, and an overall improved quality of life.
Tracheostomy
Tracheostomy or tracheotomy is a surgical procedure to open an airway in a blocked trachea, or windpipe. A small hole is created in the neck, and a tube is often inserted into the hole to provide support and drainage. The patient can breathe through the hole that is created.
Tracheostomy is performed for a variety of reasons when a bypass to the normal airway is needed. A patient may have an object lodged in their throat or have an injury that damaged their windpipe. They may have cancer or a swelling in their throat that stops air from moving freely. Sometimes tracheostomy is performed to make breathing easier when patients are paralyzed or have trouble coming off a ventilator.
A tracheostomy can be temporary or permanent. A temporary tracheostomy tends to heal over easily when the tube is removed, leaving a small scar. A permanent tracheostomy can make speech difficult at first. It takes time to learn how to use the throat and air in a new way.
Tracheostomy is a fairly simple procedure, but it can make all the difference in a life or death situation.
Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO for Medicare patients.
doctor visit | 42 |
---|
Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO for Medicare patients.
doctor visit | 42 |
---|
Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO graduated from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB), College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2016. She completed residency at Otolarynogology/Head and Neck Surgery, Kettering Medical Center. She has a state license in North Carolina.
Medical School: Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB), College of Osteopathic Medicine (2016)
Residency: Otolarynogology/Head and Neck Surgery, Kettering Medical Center (2021)
Licensed In: North Carolina
Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO has an exceptional overall rating with an average of 4.65 out of 5 stars based on 443 ratings. We collect ratings and reviews of Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO from all over the web to help you find the right in Greensboro, NC.
These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Meghan Ann Skotnicki, DO. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.
Medtronic USA, Inc. |
$324
NUVENT $200 |
FUSION $125 |
---|---|---|
Smith+Nephew, Inc. |
$166
Halo $166 |
Food and Beverage | $324 |
---|---|
Education | $166 |
Dr. Meghan Skotnicki is a specialist in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) in Greensboro, NC. She is a graduate of Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB), College of Osteopathic Medicine. Her clinical interests include throat cancer, thyroid problems, and snoring. Patients rated Dr. Skotnicki highly, giving her an average of 4.5 stars (out of 5). In addition to English, Dr. Skotnicki (or staff) speaks Spanish and Polish. She is professionally affiliated with Wake Forest Baptist Health.