Building an endoscopic ear surgery program.
OBJECTIVE
This article discusses background, operative details, and outcomes of endoscopic ear surgery. This information will be helpful for those establishing a new program.


RESULTS
Endoscopic ear surgery is growing in popularity. The ideal benefit is in totally transcanal access that would otherwise require a larger incision. The endoscope carries a number of advantages over the microscope, as well as some disadvantages. Several key maneuvers can minimize disadvantages. There is a paucity of studies directly comparing outcomes between endoscopic and microscopic approaches for the same procedure.


CONCLUSIONS
The endoscope is gaining acceptance as a tool for treating otologic diseases. For interested surgeons, this article can help bridge the transition from microscopic to totally transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for appropriate disease.
Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.
Justin S
JS
Golub
D002983:Clinical Competence; D004210:Dissection; D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000601:surgery*; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000193:education; D006488:Hemostasis, Surgical; D006801:Humans; D059032:Learning Curve; D008853:Microscopy; D009873:Operating Rooms / Q000458:organization & administration; D016730:Program Development; D019291:Skull Base / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps