Daniel I. Choo, MD

Biography

I care for children with ear and hearing problems, such as chronic ear infections and cholesteatoma that need surgical repair. As a pediatric ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor, I specialize in cochlear implantation and other implantable hearing devices that help restore a child’s hearing.

The needs and priorities of each child and family are different when finding the best care. I believe it is critical to align our care plans with the family’s priorities. I deliver treatment in a caring and efficient manner with great technical execution. This is the art of medicine that I strive toward.

Often, just before going into the operating room, I reassure parents that I'll treat their child as if they were my own. That is my personal gold standard for care. I hope this sentiment reassures and comforts families.

I became a pediatric ENT doctor and head and neck surgeon thanks to experiences from my training. Early on, my mentor included me in a consultation with a young couple whose child was born profoundly deaf in both ears. At that time, there were no options for restoring their hearing. My mentor advised the parents to learn sign language and gave them a card of the New York School for the Deaf. I remember the family was understandably shocked that no other options were available. They now faced using only a manual-visual communication mode with their child.

Several years later, I watched the activation of a child's cochlear implant. I saw the family's reaction as their child turned toward their voices for the very first time. The impact of providing access to sound and speech made a profound impression on me. The experience drives me to offer an implantable option, whenever appropriate, and to help families develop effective communication strategies for their children.

My research targets new and better ways to manage and treat conditions of the ear, nose and throat. I study:

• Advanced understanding of sleep disruption and circadian biology to help children with obstructive sleep apnea
• Gene therapies for deafness
• Innovative surgical techniques for reconstructing malformed or scarred airways
• Novel surgical instrumentation to improve minimally invasive ear surgery

My research is diversified to address all the conditions ENTs encounter in our patient care.

One of the most gratifying recognitions I've received is the Cincinnati Children’s Patient Family Experience Award. The honor is based on feedback from our patients and their parents. Taking care of patients and cultivating healthy family relationships provides immense satisfaction in my work.

When I’m not at work, I spend time with family and friends. Playing the piano is invaluable private time that I enjoy.