Rakhi W. Thambi, MD

Rakhi Thambi, M.D., MBA, is an otolaryngologist or ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician with the craniofacial cleft team at Shriners Children's Chicago.

Dr. Thambi completed her residency at the University of Illinois Medical Center in 2002 and then returned to practice at the University after working in private practice for a few years.

For children with craniofacial conditions, an ENT physician is a necessary part of their care team. “The eustachian tube is located behind the nose and is connected to the ear. This tube equalizes pressure in our ear and the muscle of the tube inserts on the palate. Therefore, a child with a cleft palate often has ear and hearing problems because the ear can't equalize,” Dr. Thambi states.

Dr. Thambi says one of her favorite things about working at Shriners Children’s Chicago is the patients. “Watching the kids grow and change over time is truly amazing. The kids and parents are so appreciative of the care they receive and travel so far to come to Shriners. I also enjoy the staff at Shriners. We truly work as a team with a common goal of patient care."

In her free time, Dr. Thambi enjoys everything Chicago has to offer, including walking around the city, eating at new restaurants, listening to live music, running along the lakefront, and enjoying the beaches in the summer.