Excitement is building as the global otolaryngology community gets ready to gather in Indianapolis for the specialty's premier event.
The AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO draws over 5,000 attendees from around the world. From bustling hospitals in São Paulo to cutting-edge clinics in Seoul, otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons worldwide are packing their suitcases for the field's most anticipated international gathering. The AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, taking place October 11–14 in Indianapolis, represents far more than a conference—it's where the future of global otolaryngology care takes shape.
This year's meeting will feature significant international representation, with attendees expected from over 70 countries, bringing diverse perspectives, breakthrough research, and collaborative solutions to the challenges facing otolaryngology worldwide. Whether you're navigating healthcare systems in emerging markets, pioneering minimally invasive techniques in established centers, or bridging gaps in care across borders, this gathering offers unprecedented opportunities to connect, learn, and advance the specialty on a global scale.
"The international dimension of our Annual Meeting continues to grow," said Maria V. Suurna, MD, AAO-HNSF Coordinator for International Affairs. "We've intentionally designed programming that not only welcomes our global colleagues but celebrates the unique insights and innovations they bring to our specialty. From dedicated Spanish-language sessions to region-specific roundtables, this meeting reflects the borderless nature of medical advancements."
Monday, October 13, Is International Day
International Day at the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO will feature several must-attend events, including the Humanitarian Efforts Forum, Eugene N. Myers, MD International Lecture on Head and Neck Cancer, International Advisory Board General Assembly, International General Session, and the lively International Reception, all of which are open to international attendees.
Titus Ibekwe, MD, AAO-HNS International Advisory Board Chair"I'm thrilled about what we have planned for International Day this year," says Titus Ibekwe, MD, AAO-HNS International Advisory Board Chair. "Each event—from our forums and lectures to the International Reception—has been thoughtfully designed to foster the kind of meaningful exchanges that drive our specialty forward. These gatherings are where lasting partnerships begin and where we truly see the power of our global otolaryngology community working together."
Humanitarian Efforts Forum International Day kicks off at 8 am with the Humanitarian Efforts Forum. Gregory J. Basura, MD, PhD, Chair of the Humanitarian Efforts Committee, invites all attendees to listen, share, and discuss pressing issues affecting humanitarian action related to otolaryngology. The forum will feature a panel discussion focused on Building Curriculum in Resourced Challenged Communities.
The distinguished panelists will include Estella Bilson-Amoah, BSc, MBChB, MGCS (Ghana), Ashish Chandra Agarwal, MBBS, MS, MRCS (India), Johannes Fagan, MBChB (South Africa), Rosalinda Pieruzzini, MD (Venezuela), and Brianne Roby, MD (United States) and will be moderated by Dr. Basura and Ryan Belcher, MD.
"This session addresses one of the most critical challenges in global otolaryngology—how do we build effective, sustainable training programs in settings where resources are limited but the need is tremendous," says Dr. Basura. "Our panelists will share practical, proven strategies for adapting curricula to local contexts, from creative low-cost teaching methods to building partnerships that ensure long-term sustainability. Whether you're involved in global health initiatives or simply interested in innovative approaches to medical education, you'll leave this session with actionable insights and a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity happening in resource-challenged communities around the world."
Eugene N. Myers, MD International Lecture on Head and Neck Cancer Don't miss this year's Eugene N. Myers, MD International Lecture on Head and Neck Cancer, featuring Ralph W. Gilbert, MD, who will present "The Toronto Experience in Complex Airway Reconstruction" at 11:00 am, on Monday, October 13, as part of the International Day program.
Dr. Gilbert, head of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the University Health Network—Canada's largest hospital and home to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre—will share insights from one of the world's leading cancer care institutions. As the Gullane/O'Neil Chair in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and professor at the University of Toronto, Dr. Gilbert brings decades of expertise in managing challenging cases in airway reconstruction.
International Advisory Board General Assembly Join us for a compelling discussion on one of the most pressing issues in global healthcare at the International Advisory Board General Assembly at 2:30 pm. on Monday, October 13. This year's panel, "Cost of Global Healthcare—Who Benefits?" will be facilitated by Dr. Ibekwe, and moderated by Dr. Suurna and Hector de la Garza, MD.
This distinguished panel brings together leaders from six continents to examine critical questions about healthcare economics and access in otolaryngology. Panelists include Dr. Ibekwe (Nigeria/Africa), Yvonne Chan, MD (Canada/North America), Ann Hermansson, MD (Sweden/Europe), Majid Al-Abdulla, MD (Qatar/Middle East), Ja Won Koo, MD (Korea/Asia), and Nancy Aguilar, MD (Mexico/Latin America).
Panelists will share regional perspectives on healthcare policy changes affecting otolaryngology care, the challenge of balancing innovation with cost containment, disparities in access to care, and the greatest threats to sustainable, quality otolaryngology services in the coming decade.
International Reception
International attendees are invited to relax and reconnect with colleagues from around the globe during the International Reception starting at 5:30 pm on Monday, October 13, in the ICC, Sagamore Ballroom Foyer. It's a chance to unwind after a full day of programming while building connections with international colleagues who share your passion for advancing otolaryngology care worldwide. No ticket required.
All international attendees are invited to discuss topics at the forefront of otolaryngology and share pertinent regional issues and opportunities. Attendees will receive a special AAO-HNS branded gift (while supplies last). It's also a valuable chance to connect face-to-face with AAO-HNS international leadership and build relationships that extend beyond the meeting. The roundtable will take place at the Global Connections Lounge, ICC, Room 101-102, 2:30-3:30 pm on Sunday, October 12.
There are over 30 education sessions included in this year’s International Symposium program. International symposium sessions are scheduled throughout the conference and showcase cutting-edge content presented by international physicians. Each session will provide a global perspective on popular topics in otolaryngology.
To view the session titles, visit the Annual Meeting Education Program, select “Education Sessions,” and filter by “International Physicians” as the Audience.
For Spanish Speakers
In collaboration with the Pan American Association of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, the AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting will again offer a full day of Spanish-language education sessions on Saturday, October 11.
These sessions will be recorded and distributed to the Latin American otolaryngology community after the meeting. Visit the online schedule and sort “Spanish Language” under the Special Focus category to view the complete Spanish sessions schedule.
Join the Academy for Discounted Registration!
Did you know the most cost-effective way to attend the Annual Meeting is to become an AAO-HNS member? Join the Academy today to take advantage of discounted international membership rates. It costs less to join the AAO-HNS and register for the Annual Meeting than to attend the Annual Meeting as a nonmember.
Use discount code AM2025 and click “apply” at checkout. No code required if you are from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, or any low- and lower-resourced country.*
Titus Ibekwe, MD, AAO-HNS International Advisory Board Chair
