Becoming a Better Ear Surgeon: Temporal Bone Histology, Radiology and Histopathology

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The temporal bone is often seen as a 'black box' inside which ear disease occurs. Otolaryngologists obtain CT imaging to understand the patient's condition. By correlating 20 micron thick histology slices with 1 mm thick CT images, this presentation will enable the attendee to visualize and understand much more than what is visible in black and white. Moving on, common ear diseases will be explored using histopathology slides so that the attendee can understand and predict natural course and outcomes of targeted intervention. This course is geared to trainees and young practitioners who want to understand this 'black box' better, but can also be appreciated by more experienced ear surgeons. The prior 2 hour long course has been condensed to one jam-packed session. Adequate time will be given for audience participation and questions.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: compare horizontal and vertical histology specimens of the temporal bone to corresponding axial and coronal temporal bone images in order to understand the macroanatomy using microanatomical precision

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: interpret CT images to correlate with the more detailed nuances of ongoing ear pathology

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: explain expected findings and outcomes at presentation, natural course without treatment, and goals of intervention in various common ear diseases

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: This course was begun by my father Dr. HK Chandra Sekhar 30 years ago and ran without break for the next 25 years. I joined him for the last 10 years. It is a deep scientific dive that demystifies temporal bone macro- and micro-anatomy, and allows one to approach ear disease in a more confident manner.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement : This is being submitted in Otology/Neurotology track.