ENT Specialists Gather for the XXXVII Pan American Congress of Otolaryngology— Head and Neck Surgery

Close to 700 otolaryngologists, representing 35 countries worldwide, met in Orlando, Florida, June 25-27, to learn and reconnect with their global colleagues. Hosted by the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF), the 2022 Pan American Congress highlighted the importance of ongoing education and the strength and potential of global collaboration for the specialty.

With seven subspecialty tracks and over 150 sessions to choose from presented by leading faculty in the specialty, attendees discovered the latest clinical data and medical advances. Attendees could choose from English, Spanish, or bilingual sessions, and translation services were provided for a significant portion of the program. The virtual poster program complemented the robust academic agenda and included 25 unique submissions. Congress participants benefited from access to the exhibit area, which showcased leading medical resources, equipment, pharmaceutical, and tech providers. 

In addition to the fabulous scientific program, the Congress provided numerous opportunities to renew existing collegial relationships and establish new ones through a series of social events at the Opening and Closing Ceremonies featuring music, dancing, and networking. Attendees were also transported to Universal Studios City Walk for an evening of live music and a taste of America from reggae, jazz, swing, and karaoke clubs. 

“The Congress was a great success with physicians able to reconnect with OTO peers from around the world and take advantage of a truly informative and worthwhile program,” stated Pablo Stolovitzky, MD, President of the 2022 Congress, and AAO-HNSF Immediate Past Coordinator for International Affairs. 

“We would like to thank the companies that generously sponsored this year’s Congress, including Medtronic, Sanofi Regeneron, A.R.C. Laser, Cochlear, and Talala,” noted James C. Denneny III, MD, AAO-HSN/F Executive Vice President and CEO.   

The Pan American Congress first convened in 1946 and has met almost every two years since then. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Congress had not gathered since 2018 in Lima, Peru. The AAO-HNSF and the 2022 Pan American Program Committee are thankful to the Congress speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees, who, despite pandemic-related obstacles, ensured the 2022 Pan American Congress was an informative and successful reunion.