Otomatch : Becoming : Training Structure

Training/Residency Structure

Medical School: 4 years, although a small percentage of applicants will choose to take an additional year to perform basic science/clinical research or to obtain another degree, such as an MPH or MBA. MD/PhD's will take an additional 3-6 years to obtain a PhD.

Residency: 5 years, which is typical of surgical residencies. The first year is internship, which is now built into the residency structure (in other words, the internship is completed at the otolaryngology program into which you match). Most internships contain 1-4 months of otolaryngology and 8-11 months of rotations in various other surgical and related fields (e.g. neurosurgery, general surgery, anesthesia, etc.) A handful of academically-geared residency programs include an additional 1-2 years of basic science/clinical research, bringing the total to 6-7 years.

Fellowship: 1-2 years, however the majority of otolaryngology residents across the country do not pursue a fellowship. Most fellowships are usually 1 year, with the exception of otology/neurotology/skull base surgery, which is usually 2 years. However, academically-geared fellowships may be up to 2 years. Most fellowships are actually not "board-certified" because of their extremely specific and small nature. Fellowships (and corresponding societies) include:

• Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS)

• Head and Neck Surgical Oncology and Microvascular Reconstruction (AHNS)

• Laryngology & Voice Disorders (ALA, ABEA)

• Pediatrics (ASPO)

• Otology, Neurotology, & Skull Base Surgery (AOS, ANS)

• Rhinology & Paranasal Sinus Disorders (ARS)

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