Amberley Munnings, ST7, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
For the first time, the British Society of Otology (BSO) held its Annual Meeting alongside the BSO Juniors Day, creating a dynamic and collaborative two-day event.
The Junior’s Day centred on the theme of ‘Continuous Improvement’, with a series of talks exploring the personal and professional growth of consultants at different stages of their careers. Through panel discussions, attendees examined challenging clinical cases and strategies to optimise learning during specialty training and beyond. A lively debate closed the session, exploring whether fellowship training is essential for a career in otology.
This seamlessly transitioned into the Annual Meeting, themed ‘Striving for Excellence’. The programme featured cutting-edge topics in the field, including fresh perspectives on cochlear implant referrals, phenotyping hearing loss and the growing role of genetic testing in diagnosis. Attendees also received updates on bone conduction technologies and other novel devices with promising global implications, as well as discussions on achieving optimal surgical outcomes in cochlear implant procedures.
A highlight of the event was a spirited debate on the role of social media in the lives of otologists. The session provoked thoughtful discussion on the benefits and challenges of maintaining a digital presence within the medical profession.
Renowned anatomist and author, Professor Alice Roberts, delivered a captivating exploration of the evolutionary development of the human ear. Her engaging presentation brought day one to a close and was followed by a vibrant networking dinner, complete with entertainment from ‘The Arrhythmics’ band.
The conference also welcomed prestigious international speakers, including Professor Myrthe Hol from the Netherlands and Dr Claire Iseli from Australia, adding global insight to the programme.
A particularly engaging segment was the free paper presentations, which reflected the evolving landscape of otology. Talks explored the increasing role of MRI in otological diagnostics to addressing ergonomics in otology. The application of artificial intelligence in cholesteatoma detection was another forward-looking topic, with presenters outlining the promise of AI in improving diagnostic accuracy and surgical planning.
Key national initiatives were also spotlighted, including the National Tinnitus Audit, which seeks to standardise care and outcomes across the UK. The launch of the BSO National Tympanoplasty Database was another major highlight, offering a valuable platform for continuous quality improvement across the specialty.
Throughout the event, attendees had the opportunity to explore exhibits showcasing the latest advancements in otology and hearing resolution technology, further highlighting the conference’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the field.
The next meeting will take place in Brighton, 3 - 4 March 2026
