[OTOLARYNGOLOGY, HEAD AND NECK SURGERY - VARIETY OF PATHOLOGIES AND MANAGEMENT OPTIONS]

Abstract

The field of otolaryngology, head and neck surgery faces a wide range of medical conditions, starting with upper airway morbidity, head and neck tumors, hearing loss and deafness, ear diseases, nose, sinuses, and anterior skull base conditions, pediatric otolaryngology, laryngology and facial and reconstructive plastic surgery. The current issue of this journal presents a variety of manuscripts that are in the forefront of our specialty in Israel and around the world. The management of laryngeal tumors is undergoing thorough modification aiming to preserve the organ while early tumors are treated endoscopically using laser technology. The human papilloma virus is one of the major changes that recently emerged as an important etiologic factor for oropharyngeal carcinoma in young nonsmokers. Hearing loss and deafness are negative contributors to the quality of life. Congenital hearing loss has a major effect on brain development, and speech and language development, therefore, early cochlear implantation is beneficial for well child development. Different aspects associated with cochlear implantation are discussed in this issue. Many fields that are associated with our specialty are gradually utilized by otolaryngologists, for example the utilization of ultrasound by surgeons. The field of otolaryngology head and neck surgery is dynamic and abundant with innovative technologies that are presented in this article, starting with cochlear implants, robotic surgery, and the utilization of 3D printers for complicated facial reconstructions. We are in the midst of a journey and we may assume that the future holds great promise both for our patients and for us as health care providers.