What is Oto — Headmirror

We want to notify Headmirror users that OtoRecall is now once again available in the Apple App Store.  If you have not used this incredible (FREE) learning resource, check it out today! This free offering was made possible by the generous support of Cochlear Ltd, and Stryker Corp. Link to here: https://www.headmirror.com/otorecall

WHAT IS OTOLARYNGOLOGY
What's in a name? To some, the name otolaryngology-head and neck surgery might seem unnecessarily long and full of self-importance. It was chosen, however, to encompass the incredible breadth of the field. Otolaryngology (ō’tō-lar-ing-gol’ŏ-jē), commonly referred to as ENT (ear, nose, & throat) or Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, combines both medical and surgical treatments to cover a broad range of conditions impacting the head and neck region. Essentially, it involves all areas from the clavicles up, excluding the eye and spine, and with a few exceptions, remains outside of the dura; “from pleura to dura.”  Some otolaryngologists will also harvest free flaps from the limbs, abdomen, or back to reconstruct parts of the head and neck!

TRAINING/RESIDENCY STRUCTURE

Medical School: For most, the medical school journey encompasses 4 years of study: The first 2 years include a mix of classroom and lab time designed to cover basic science curriculum in areas including anatomy, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, and pharmacology, while the second 2 years primarily involve clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals and clinics. A small percentage of applicants will choose to take an additional year to perform basic science/clinical research or to obtain another degree, such as an MPH or MBA. MD/PhDs will customarily take an additional 3-6 years to obtain a PhD.

Residency: US residency programs in otolaryngology consist of a minimum of 5 years of training. The first year, the intern year, comprises a series of rotations within different specialties as mandated by the ACGME. Since 2016, however, interns are able to spend 6 months on the otolaryngology service! The remaining 6 months vary based on the residency program, but are chosen from the following: anesthesia, general surgery, neurological surgery, neuroradiology, ophthalmology, oral-maxillofacial surgery, pediatric surgery, plastic surgery, and radiation oncology. At least 1 month must be on an intensive care rotation. The following 4 years are dedicated to graduated training within otolaryngology. The final year of education culminates in a requisite chief resident year. A handful of academically-geared residency programs include an additional 1-2 years of basic science/clinical research, bringing the total to 6-7 years. 

Fellowship: Fellowship training generally requires an additional 1-2 years; however, many otolaryngology residents across the country do not pursue advanced fellowship training. A summary of the pros and cons regarding additional fellowship training and an overview of the various fellowship options are provided within the resident content pages. As a general rule of thumb, most fellowships are 1 year in length, with the exception of neurotology, which is usually 2 years. However, some academically-geared fellowships may be up to 2 years. Fellowships (and corresponding societies) include: