The Division of Rhinology and Skull Base Surgery, officially formed in April, 2016, is comprised of clinical faculty with expertise in the treatment of diseases and disorders of the nose, paranasal sinuses, and skull base tumors. The division delivery exemplary patient care, comprehensive clinical training and innovative research that is changing the way patient care is being delivered.
Faculty
- Melissa A. Pynnonen, M.D., Division Chief
- Amarbir S. Gill, M.D.
- Erin L. McKean, M.D., M.B.A.
- Scott A. McLean, M.D., Ph.D., FACS
- Mark A. Zacharek, M.D.
Patient Care
Skull Base Surgery
Our Skull Base Program diagnoses and treats benign and malignant tumors involving the cranial base region, cerebrospinal fluid leaks and encephaloceles, and traumatic injuries to the face and skull. The skull base specialists in otolaryngology work with their colleagues in neurosurgery, ophthalmology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology to ensure comprehensive, appropriate treatment and the highest quality outcomes possible.
The Michigan Sinus Center
Our rhinologists evaluate and treat diseases and disorders of the nose and paranasal sinuses. The Michigan Sinus Center expands care to include a multidisciplinary clinic where our rhinologists provide high-quality, efficient treatment by co-locating allergists, asthma specialists, pulmonologists, infectious disease specialists, and otolaryngologists.
Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT)
Our rhinologists frequently see patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, also known as HHT, and nosebleeds. Treatment options can span from simple recommendations, such as humidification, to more sophisticated recommendations, such as laser treatment, surgical intervention, Avastin treatments, and sclerotherapy (injections to scar the small blood vessel abnormalities).
Otolaryngic Allergy Clinic
In an effort to expand our allergy services, we have also established an Otolaryngic Allergy Clinic. This clinic offers skin allergy testing and immunotherapy options, and serves to complement our rhinology treatments, improving efficiency of care.
Patient Stories
Education
Education is a core mission of the division, with all faculty members committing numerous hours to teach practicing physicians, fellows, residents, and medical students. The division also actively mentors residents and fellows on research.
Sinus and Skull Base Dissection Course
One of the division’s most unique teaching opportunities is the annual sinus and skill base dissection course. The intensive two-day course, primarily taught by rhinology and skull base faculty, provides U-M otolaryngology trainees with the opportunity to perform a variety of procedures and dissections of the sinus, and skull base.
Research
Research interests within the division vary, but always emphasize the outcomes and long-term improvements in patient care. For example, division chief, Erin McKean, M.D., MBA, conducts research involving biomarkers for skull base tumors, targeted therapy for skill base malignancies, outcomes after treatment of anterior skill base pathologies, and long-term effects of radiation therapy of the head and neck on pituitary function. Though research priorities differ, the division continues its pursuit of excellence.