Ear, Nose & Throat Center of Austin offers and maintains this Web site to provide information of a general nature about the conditions requiring the services of otolaryngology. The information is provided with the understanding that Karen L. Stierman and Russell D. Briggs are not engaged in rendering surgical or medical advice or recommendations. Any information in the publications, messages, postings, or articles on this Web site should not be considered a substitute for consultation with a board certified otolaryngologist to address individual medical needs. Individual facts and circumstances will determine the treatment that is most appropriate. This information is meant for residents of the state of Texas and any others who read it do so at their own risk.