Otolaryngology
Otolaryngology─Head and Neck Surgery (OTO-HNS) basically deals with everything above the clavicles, with the exception of the eyes and brain/spine (usually!).
This is a most interesting and complex area, housing most of the major sensory organs—hearing, balance, smell, taste, sensation, vision. Most of the motor structures that let us interact as emotional beings, such as speech and facial expressions, are also in this region. All of these structures interface extensively with the brain and psychological constructs, which adds many layers of complexity.
All of these structures are subject to the same disorders seen elsewhere (such as inflammation, infection, cancer), with the added effects of loss of sensory or motor function and, in the case of the airway, loss of life. It is no wonder then that OTL-HNS attracts thoughtful surgeons who are fascinated by the beautiful anatomy, the complex interplay with other disciplines such as oncology (head and neck surgery), neurology and neurosurgery (otology and neurotology), ophthalmology (rhinology), endocrinology (thyroid and parathyroid surgery) and thoracics (laryngology). The mixture of medical and surgical treatment options are somewhat unique in surgery. OTL─HNS is also defined by its extensive interactions with other health professions, such as speech language pathology and audiology.
Our division is noted for its dedication, collegiality, commitment to teaching at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and for the volume of clinical and basic science research performed.