Miniseminar: Current controversies in otitis media

Abstract

Otolaryngologists are viewed as the experts in diagnosing and treating otitis media (OM) both medically and surgically. As experts, otolaryngologists are also often asked to comment on controversial clinical topics related to OM. The miniseminar’s format will be that of an interactive panel of experts who have contributed to the medical literature concerning current controversial topics as they relate to the selective use of antibiotics for acute otitis media, and the impact of OM on speech, language, and childhood development. A point-counter point debate will center on the topic of withholding antibiotics to allow for spontaneous resolution of acute OM and will focus on the aspects of complications, speed of recovery, accuracy of diagnosis, costs, antimicrobial resistance, and medical/legal issues. A second point-counter point debate will center on the topic of the impact that chronic OM with effusion has on childhood development, specifically related to speech and language outcomes. The moderator will provide additional points of interest regarding each of these topics and audience participation will be encouraged through an interactive format. We plan a pre- and postpresentation audience survey to assess the program’s educational impact.