The Triological Society, a venerable institution in the field of otolaryngology, convened its annual Combined Sections Meeting in Orlando, Florida, from January 22-24, to honor leading professionals and celebrate advancements within the specialty. The event served as a crucial platform for the society’s four regional sections—Eastern, Middle, Southern, and Western—to formally recognize distinguished figures and emerging talents whose contributions significantly shape the landscape of ear, nose, and throat medicine and surgery. The section vice presidents—Natasha Mirza, MD (Eastern), Craig A. Buchman, MD (Middle), Earl H. Harley, MD (Southern), and Dinesh K. Chhetri, MD (Western)—presided over the ceremonies, highlighting the exceptional achievements of their respective honorees.
A Legacy of Innovation and Dedication
The Combined Sections Meeting is a cornerstone event for otolaryngologists across the nation, offering a unique opportunity for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the recognition of outstanding contributions. This year’s meeting in Orlando underscored the Triological Society’s ongoing commitment to fostering excellence and advancing the practice of otolaryngology through the acknowledgment of both seasoned leaders and promising young investigators. The selection of honorees reflects a rigorous process that evaluates sustained impact, groundbreaking research, clinical innovation, and dedication to education and mentorship within the field.
Eastern Section: Honoring Visionaries in Skull Base Surgery and Sensory Science
The Eastern Section’s proceedings were marked by the recognition of two exceptionally influential figures: Bert W. O’Malley Jr., MD, as Guest of Honor, and Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, and Richard L. Doty, PhD, as Citation Awardees.
Bert W. O’Malley Jr., MD, President of the University of Maryland Medical Center and Executive Vice President for the Academic Health Division of the University of Maryland Medical System, was celebrated for his pioneering work in skull base surgery, robotic surgery, and head and neck cancer. Dr. O’Malley’s innovative spirit is evident in his co-invention and development of transoral robotic surgery (TORS), a minimally invasive technique that has revolutionized the surgical approach to certain head and neck cancers. He co-founded the world’s first human robotics head and neck surgery program and the first skull base surgery program, establishing new paradigms for complex surgical interventions. His leadership in clinical trials, including those that led to U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for TORS procedures in 2009 and 2014, underscores his significant impact on patient care and surgical practice. Dr. O’Malley’s extensive academic career as a professor within the University of Maryland School of Medicine further solidifies his legacy as an internationally renowned surgeon and educator.
Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, a multifaceted clinician and leader, was honored for her extensive contributions to otolaryngology. As a Clinical Professor at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra-Northwell University and Clinical Associate Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, she demonstrates a deep commitment to medical education. Her leadership roles, including past president of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) and president of the American Otological Society, highlight her influence within the broader otolaryngology community. Dr. Chandrasekhar’s clinical expertise as Director of Neurotology at the JJ Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center and her entrepreneurial spirit as CEO of KivviMed, Inc., a pharma startup focused on intranasal surfactant for Eustachian tube dysfunction, showcase her dedication to both patient care and innovative therapeutic development. Her recognition as a Living Legend in the Hall of Distinction at AAO-HNS and her receipt of the Dr. Mary Edwards Walker Prize for Inspiring Women in Surgery from the American College of Surgeons are testaments to her profound impact.
Richard L. Doty, PhD, a leading figure in the study of the chemical senses, was recognized for his groundbreaking research at the University of Pennsylvania’s Smell and Taste Center, which he directed for nearly five decades. Dr. Doty’s work has fundamentally advanced our understanding of olfaction and gustation. He is the inventor of the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), a standardized olfactory assessment that has been translated into over 60 languages, becoming an indispensable tool in diagnosing and managing smell disorders. His development of the first waterless empirical taste test (WETT) further expands the accessibility of sensory assessments. With over 500 publications, including seminal works such as "The Great Pheromone Myth" and "Neurology of Olfaction," and his editorship of the comprehensive "Handbook of Olfaction and Gustation," Dr. Doty has established himself as a preeminent authority in the field. His numerous awards, including the James A. Shannon Award from the National Institutes of Health and the 2024 ScholarGPS Highly Ranked Scholar award (Olfaction #1, Otolaryngology #4), reflect the profound and lasting influence of his research.
Middle Section: Celebrating Advances in Hearing Restoration and Cochlear Implantation
The Middle Section focused its accolades on pioneers in audiology and neurotology. Jacques A. Herzog, MD, was honored as Guest of Honor, while Oliver F. Adunka, MD, and Amit Walia, MD, MSCI, received Citation Awards.
Jacques A. Herzog, MD, Professor and Chief of the Division of Otology/Neurotology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, was recognized for his instrumental role in developing multichannel cochlear implantation in the United States. He leads one of the nation’s most extensive cochlear implant programs, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to improving hearing restoration. Dr. Herzog’s establishment of the Center for Hearing and Balance Disorders has garnered national acclaim for its comprehensive otologic and neurotologic care. His research, particularly his 2023 Triological Society thesis on cognitive outcomes in older adults undergoing cochlear implantation, represents a significant contribution to understanding the long-term benefits of this technology in diverse patient populations.
Oliver F. Adunka, MD, Vice Chair for Clinical Operations and Director of the Division of Otology, Neurotology, and Cranial Base Surgery at The Ohio State University, was celebrated for his extensive work in hearing restoration and skull base surgery. A tenured professor and the William H. Saunders, MD Endowed Professor, Dr. Adunka’s contributions have significantly shaped modern cochlear implantation techniques. His leadership in the first U.S. multicenter electric-acoustic stimulation trial led to FDA approval of hybrid hearing technology. Furthermore, his development of intraoperative electrocochleography (ECochG) as a real-time tool for guiding cochlear implantation has advanced surgical precision and patient outcomes. He currently leads a multi-center National Institutes of Health U01 trial investigating the clinical utility of residual hearing in cochlear implant recipients, underscoring his continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of auditory rehabilitation.
Amit Walia, MD, MSCI, a fellow and instructor in neurotology and skull base surgery at Washington University in St. Louis, was recognized for his promising research in cochlear electrophysiology. Working under the mentorship of Dr. Craig Buchman, Dr. Walia’s work focuses on understanding cochlear mechanics to enhance outcomes for cochlear implant recipients. This research has yielded multiple patents, foundational publications, and significant research funding, establishing an important area of investigation within the field. His recognition signifies the society’s commitment to supporting and celebrating the work of early-career researchers.
Southern Section: Recognizing Leaders in Pediatric Otolaryngology and Keloid Research
The Southern Section honored Kenneth M. Grundfast, MD, as Guest of Honor, and Charles A. Hughes, MD, MBA, MPH, and Lamont R. Jones, MD, MBA, as Citation Awardees, highlighting significant contributions to pediatric otolaryngology and specialized research areas.
Kenneth M. Grundfast, MD, a distinguished figure in pediatric otolaryngology, was celebrated for his extensive career following his fellowship at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. His academic journey included faculty positions at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and later as Chair of Otolaryngology at Children’s National Medical Center. A sabbatical at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders to study deafness genetics further broadened his expertise. Dr. Grundfast later served as Chair of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Boston University School of Medicine. His prolific publications, leadership roles in professional organizations, and service as an assistant dean at Boston University School of Medicine mark him as a significant contributor to the field and to medical education.
Charles A. Hughes, MD, MBA, MPH, was recognized for his extensive experience in pediatric otolaryngology and his remarkable service to the Department of Defense. With over 30 years dedicated to treating children with a wide range of ear, nose, and throat disorders, Dr. Hughes has also served as a flight surgeon for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and NASA. His advisory roles for Tricare and the Defense Health Board, and his involvement in critical task forces during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrate his broad impact on military health services. Dr. Hughes has been instrumental in building pediatric otolaryngology divisions at Texas Children’s Hospital-The Woodlands and Providence Health, and he continues his academic pursuits as a professor at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, with plans to establish a pediatric otolaryngology division at Orlando Health’s Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.
Lamont R. Jones, MD, MBA, Associate Chief Medical Officer of the Henry Ford Medical Group and Professor at Michigan State University and Wayne State University, was honored for his internationally respected work as a surgeon-scientist. Dr. Jones’ research focuses on the pathogenesis and treatment of keloid disease, a complex dermatological condition. His clinical interests also encompass craniofacial reconstruction, facial cosmetics, and trauma. He has secured over $1.5 million in NIH and foundation funding for his keloid research and serves as a translational research advisor for preclinical and clinical trials in keloid drug discovery. His extensive publications, international lectures, board experience, and volunteer work on medical mission trips highlight his multifaceted contributions to otolaryngology and global health.
Western Section: Advancing Laryngology, Voice Disorders, and Tumor Biology
The Western Section recognized Andrew Allen Erman, MA/CCC-SLP, as Guest of Honor, and Jennifer L. Long, MD, PhD, and Maie A. St. John, MD, PhD, as Citation Awardees, celebrating advancements in laryngology, speech pathology, and head and neck cancer research.
Andrew Allen Erman, MA/CCC-SLP, former Director of Speech Pathology Services at UCLA Health System, was honored for his significant contributions to the care of head and neck cancer patients with swallowing and communication disorders. His collaborative work with Dr. Dinesh K. Chhetri of UCLA Head and Neck Surgery led to improvements in patient care, including advancements in tracheoesophageal punctures and candidacy criteria for partial epiglottiectomy to enhance swallowing function. Their joint efforts in lectures, journal articles, and textbook chapters underscore the vital interdisciplinary approach to treating complex head and neck conditions.
Jennifer L. Long, MD, PhD, a laryngologist and Professor at the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA), was recognized for her extensive work in voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. As Vice Chair of Research for the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at UCLA and founding director of UCLA’s R25 Mentored Research Pathway, she is dedicated to fostering the next generation of researchers. Dr. Long’s translational research lab focuses on regenerative medicine approaches to treat these disorders, supported by significant funding from national institutions. Her active involvement in research mentoring at local and national levels, including her roles on various committees for professional organizations, highlights her commitment to advancing the field.
Maie A. St. John, MD, PhD, Andelot Professor, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and Otolaryngologist-in-Chief at Johns Hopkins Medicine, was celebrated as a highly renowned surgeon, scientist, and educator. Her laboratory investigates the mechanisms of tumor progression and metastasis in head and neck cancers, aiming to translate these findings into novel therapeutic strategies. Dr. St. John’s clinical expertise in intraoperative tumor margin delineation for precision surgery has been crucial in improving surgical outcomes. Her leadership has fostered strong interdepartmental research programs, leading to clinical trials and patent applications, consistently supported by NIH, charitable foundations, and industry. Her extensive publications, international lectures, and active involvement in training young physician-scientists solidify her position as a leader in the field.
Special Recognition Awards
Beyond the section-specific honors, the meeting also featured special awards recognizing significant contributions to research and clinical excellence.
The George Adams, MD, Young Faculty Award was presented to Joseph Zenga, MD, Associate Professor and Vice-Chair of Research in Head and Neck Surgery at Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin. Dr. Zenga’s research focuses on basic and translational immunotherapy in head and neck cancer, particularly the identification and therapeutic use of tumor antigen-specific T cells. His laboratory employs innovative single-cell techniques, and he co-leads clinical trials exploring radiotherapy’s role in enhancing immune responses against head and neck cancers.
The 13th Annual Patrick E. Brookhouser, MD Award of Excellence was bestowed upon Mark S. Persky, MD. A recognized expert in head and neck surgery, Dr. Persky specializes in the treatment of tumors of the head, neck, skull base, and thyroid gland, as well as congenital vascular malformations. He is Professor Emeritus of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and has retired from clinical practice. His extensive publications and lectures have contributed significantly to the understanding and management of these complex conditions.
The Binderup Prize was awarded to Daniel G. Deschler, MD, Vice-Chair for Academic Affairs at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Professor at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Deschler is a prolific author with over 250 peer-reviewed publications and numerous books and chapters. He serves on the editorial boards of leading otolaryngology journals and chairs the Thesis Committee of the Triological Society. His clinical and research interests encompass head and neck oncologic and reconstructive surgery, including advanced malignancies, salivary gland diseases, and microvascular reconstruction, with a particular focus on speech outcomes and management strategies for advanced head and neck malignancies.
Implications and Future Directions
The recognition of these distinguished professionals at the Triological Society’s Combined Sections Meeting highlights the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of otolaryngology. The honorees represent a spectrum of achievements, from groundbreaking surgical techniques and innovative therapeutic developments to foundational research in sensory science and critical advancements in patient care. Their collective work underscores a commitment to improving patient outcomes, advancing medical knowledge, and shaping the future of the specialty.
The emphasis on translational research, minimally invasive surgical techniques like TORS, and the application of cutting-edge technologies such as robotic surgery and advanced immunotherapies signals key areas of growth and focus within otolaryngology. The continued dedication to mentoring young faculty and researchers, as evidenced by awards like the George Adams Young Faculty Award, ensures that the pipeline of innovation and expertise will be sustained for generations to come.
The Triological Society, through its annual meetings and awards, plays a pivotal role in fostering a community of excellence, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring that otolaryngology remains at the forefront of medical science and patient care. The Orlando gathering served as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy and bright future of this vital medical discipline.