(A831) History of Otology - A Visit to the Dennis G. Pappas Sr., M.D Collection

Introduction: For half a century, Dennis G Pappas, Sr, MD has studied the history of otology. His biography includes dozens of historical essays tracing the development of the subspecialty of otology from crude trephination to modern neuro-otology. As part of his research, he has accumulated a vast collection of otolaryngology instruments and devices.

Methods: To better understand the motivation and methods of this senior otologist, the authors visited his private collection of otologic instruments and documents, and the Dennis G. Pappas Historical Collections Gallery at the University of Alabama. This study includes extensive recorded and transcribed interviews with Dr. Pappas in his home.

Results: The collected works of one of the world's leading otologic historians are made available for future study.

Conclusions: This poster illustrates the extent of Dr. Pappas’ work over 6 decades and highlights advances in the field during a career that saw the introduction of the operating microscope, development of tympanoplasty and mastoidectomy, and the invention of surgery to triumph over deafness.