Directed by leading experts in the field, the seminar offered an in-depth exploration of various subspecialties within Otolaryngology, including rhinology, laryngology, pediatric otolaryngology, facial plastic, and reconstructive surgery. Fellows from Honduras, Nicaragua, and Mexico gathered in Mexico City to delve into the latest evidence-based guidelines and advanced techniques that are crucial in modern medical practice, something extremely relevant in the region. Specific lectures covered a wide range of topics, such as the pathophysiology of sinusitis, revision sinus surgery, hoarseness, dysphagia, tonsil and adenoid disease, congenital airway lesions, rhinoplasty, nasal valve surgery, and neurotoxin and filler injections.
A particular highlight of the seminar was a roundtable discussion on practice and career development. This session, featuring all four faculty members, provided insights into building a successful practice and advancing one’s career within the field of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. The discussion emphasized the importance of strategic career planning, effective communication, and leadership within medical institutions, offering participants the tools and inspiration to take their careers to the next level. Not often medical seminars cover topics far beyond the specialty, and we are truly committed to going beyond for meaningful impact in global health development.
The seminar also delved into the future of the field, exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in both research and clinical care. Through the example of laryngeal disorders, participants gained an understanding of how AI can revolutionize diagnostic and treatment approaches, underscoring the importance of staying at the forefront of technological advancements. This is especially important in medical education of developing areas; although there are more often most urgent concerns, we believe that the future of medical practice cannot be underestimated.
The seminar was destined to succeed counting with Dr. Michael Stewart as course director, an OMI partner for almost 20 years! Dr. Stewart is Professor and Chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine, Senior Associate Dean for International Affairs and Affiliations of the medical college, and Otolaryngologist-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian.
Dr. Stewart brought on board an exceptional team from Weill Cornell Medicine: Dr. Alison Maresh, Assistant Professor; Dr. David Phillips, Assistant Professor and Site Chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Lower Manhattan Hospital; and Dr. Anais Rameau, Chief of Dysphagia and Director of New Technologies in the Department of Otolaryngology.
Sharing a bit of his latest experience with OMI MEX, Dr. Stewart stated:
“It was an honor to serve as the course director for the OMI MEX Otolaryngology seminar in Mexico City. Along with three other outstanding faculty members, I spent three days with an excellent group of young trainees, learning about their training, practice, and career goals.”
