About Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery
lab trainees practice stitches under a microscope

Longstanding Leaders of Head & Neck Surgery

Since 1904, the U-M Medical School Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery has led the nation in excellence and innovation as pioneers in the field.

Reaching for a Vision, Rooted in Tradition

We are proud to continue our long standing tradition of excellence and innovation in diagnosing, treating and rehabilitating ear, nose, throat, head and neck conditions. That includes a strong commitment to training the next generation of innovators, with opportunities for medical students of all levels and one of the most sought-after resident training programs in the country. As a research leader, our contributions span the entire field of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery with focus on head and neck cancer, health services, neurolaryngology and hearing. Our world-renowned Kresge Hearing Research Institute consists of a diverse, dedicated group of scientists and physicians working on basic and translational research related to hearing and balance.

    Our Vision
    The Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Michigan Medicine School will be the global leader in providing exemplary clinical care, training the next generation of leaders in the field and shaping the future of research and patient care in otolaryngology.

    Our Mission

    The mission of the Department of Otolaryngology is to be the recognized leader in clinical care, education and scientific discovery. We seek sustainable excellence as:

    • Providers of world-class, compassionate and patient-centered care within a sophisticated multidisciplinary clinical delivery system
    • Great and innovative educators of students, residents, fellows and our professional colleagues such that we are the most sought-after training program in the country and trainers of the next generation of leaders and scientists in the field
    • Creators of knowledge that makes a difference in the lives of our patients
    • Responsible and innovative stewards of philanthropic, institutional and extramural resources
    • Leaders who enhance employee engagement, job satisfaction and career development for all members of the department and healthcare team
    • Exemplary role models for our students, trainees and colleagues
    • Developers of a business model with a strategic focus that assures long-lasting financial stability
    • Champions of a culture and climate that promotes inclusion, diversity and health equity
    History

    Journey through the years and explore the department’s evolution since our 1904 founding.

    Leadership

    An extensive network of leadership, united by teamwork, makes it possible for us to achieve our mission and move closer toward our collective vision.

    Giving

    Your private support is the financial backbone of our ground-breaking discoveries and lifesaving clinical applications.

    Events

    Search for upcoming lectures, seminars, social gatherings and more.

    Featured News & Stories See all news Headshot photos of 2024 U-M otolaryngology-head and neck surgery incoming residents.
    Department News
    Introducing the 2024 Incoming Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residents
    Meet the newest residents to join our program
    Blurred image of health care professionals in blue scrubs pushing a gurney down a hallway
    Health Lab
    Primary care scarcity linked to more surgical emergencies, problems
    Patients living in areas with the worst shortages of primary care providers are more likely to have emergency surgery, surgical complications and hospital readmissions.
    cancer cell blue yellow
    Health Lab
    Less chemoradiation is possible for some cancer patients
    Some oropharynx cancer patients may qualify for less radiation treatments, according to a new study from experts at the University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center.
    Drawing of parent trying to get child's attention who is listening to music on headphones
    Health Lab
    Are headphones and earbuds exposing your children to noise health risks?
    2 in 3 parents in national poll say their child ages 5-12 use personal audio devices; pediatrician offers 4 tips to reduce noise exposure risks
    Surgeon's tray with gloved hand reaching into wallet
    Health Lab
    Worries about costs, time off work and COVID-19 kept some older adults from having surgery
    Elective surgery study shows older adults have concerns about what it will cost them, how much work they’ll miss and whether they’ll catch COVID-19.
    article on phone being read by person
    Health Lab
    The most popular articles of 2023
    With over 400 stories published on Health Lab in 2023, the following 10 articles were the most read of the year.