Otolaryngology and deafness

Results of a survey of 113 departments of otolaryngology chairmen indicated that, in general, otolaryngologists are inexperienced in treating deaf children. Moreover, the education of residents is marginal in some topics related to deafness. We conclude that didactic work in these deficient areas should be included in the curriculum of otolaryngology residents so that the needs of patients with such problems will be better met. This study was stimulated by the results of a survey of schools for the deaf regarding the otologic care of deaf children. Questions arose as to what extent otolaryngology residents are instructed in topics related to deafness.