• 9/14/2006
  • Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  • press release
  • Newswire.ca

More than 8,000 specialized doctors from the community of otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons will convene at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) September 17-20th for the 2006 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF).

Specialists from North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia will attend the event to learn about the latest research findings in patient care and to meet exhibitors who develop products related to the specialty. More than 165 scientific research sessions, 200 posters and 400 instruction course hours are among the program highlights. Topics under discussion will include medical disorders such as sinusitis, hearing loss, ear infections, voice disorders, vertigo and loss of balance, and sleep disorders.

Additionally, research findings will be unveiled during the meeting regarding the efficacy of plastic surgery, as well as treatment for head and neck cancer, one of the most deadly forms of cancer. The findings from select research presentations will be provided in news releases and offered to the news media on an embargoed basis on or before September 17th.

“This annual event embodies our passion for our mission,” said AAO-HNS Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, David R. Nielsen, MD. “For the first time since 1932, the community of otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons will convene outside of the United States for an exciting meeting filled with learning opportunities and camaraderie, creating a new opportunity for growth on multiple levels,” he added.

“We are delighted to be welcoming such a prestigious group of physicians to Toronto,” added Barry Smith, the Centre’s CEO. “Otolaryngologists are highly specialized medical professionals who treat problems that are among the most common afflictions to people of all ages and both sexes. Their work does a great deal to improve quality of life worldwide.”

About Otolaryngology & the AAO-HNS

Otolaryngology is the oldest medical specialty in the United States. Otolaryngologists are physicians trained in the medical and surgical diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related structures of the head and neck.

Commonly referred to as ENT physicians, these specialists differ from many physicians in that they are trained in both medicine and surgery. Otolaryngologists do not need to refer patients to other physicians when ear, nose, throat, or head and neck surgery is needed and, therefore, can offer the most appropriate care for each individual patient.

Their special skills include expertise in the structures of the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, and upper pharynx (mouth and throat), as well as the head and neck. Because so many of these physical structures are essential to communication and sensory function, otolaryngologists treat many patient complaints that are considered primary care problems in both children and adults.

The AAO-HNS is the world’s largest organization representing these specialized physicians, with more than 12,000 members. The AAO-HNS Foundation works to advance the art, science and ethical practice of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery through education, research, and lifelong learning.