Airway Second Opinions

The multidisciplinary Center for Pediatric Airway Disorders at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is available to consult with you or your physician on second opinion requests remote or on-site. Comprised of otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, and Throat), pulmonary, gastroenterology (GI), and speech language pathology, we specialize in disorders that affect the airway, breathing, feeding, and swallowing.  We work with families and clinicians from all over the country and around the world to confirm diagnoses or to provide second opinions.

Why get a second opinion from an Airway Specialist

When your child has received a new diagnosis or does not have an established diagnosis, a second opinion may give you the information to understand the diagnosis as well as guide you toward an informed and educated decision about treatment. A second opinion can also provide reassurance as you make decisions about your child's care. Families seek second opinions for a variety of reasons, including:

Feeling uncomfortable with or needing confirmation of a diagnosis

When your child receives a new airway or aerodigestive diagnosis you likely hope to make a treatment plan as soon as possible. You may find that getting a second opinion can clear up any doubts you may have or provide you with the confirmation you need to proceed with treatment quickly.

Seeking the opinion of an Airway specialist with expertise in treating your child's condition

While your child’s specialist may have the ability to treat other children with your child's condition, they may wish to obtain a second opinion from a pediatric airway specialist who is highly experienced with a particular diagnosis, especially when the disease is very rare or complex. CHOP specialists may be aware of new treatment methods or studies and can share that information. Further, sometimes just hearing information about a diagnosis and management strategy presented in a slightly different way can be educational.