Past Grand Rounds

All CME credit must be claimed by 11 PM central on the day during which the CME content was first presented.

Head and Neck Cancer Care in 2050: Emerging Technologies Redefining Surgery, Pathology, and Multidisciplinary Care
Evan de Joya, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, September 10, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Dr. Evan de Joya presents a forward-looking discussion on the future of head and neck cancer management, exploring how emerging technologies may reshape oncology care by the year 2050. Drawing on current research and ongoing clinical trials, he examines advances in artificial intelligence, multi-omic tumor profiling, spatial transcriptomics, circulating tumor DNA monitoring, and digital twin technology for personalized treatment planning. The presentation reviews innovations that may improve cancer screening, diagnosis, operative decision-making, and post-treatment surveillance. Topics include response-adapted surgery, neoadjuvant immunotherapy, fluorescence-guided tumor visualization, augmented reality in the operating room, AI-assisted pathology, robotic surgery, and molecular detection of minimal residual disease before clinical recurrence becomes apparent. Dr. de Joya also discusses the evolving role of the head and neck surgeon in an era of precision oncology, emphasizing the importance of clinical judgment, patient values, multidisciplinary collaboration, and responsible integration of emerging technologies. The session offers a compelling vision of how innovation may reduce treatment morbidity while improving outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer.

Persistent Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Diagnosis and Management after Adenotonsillectomy
Abigail Watson, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, August 27, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Dr. Abigail Watson, MD reviews the diagnosis and management of persistent pediatric obstructive sleep apnea after adenotonsillectomy, a condition affecting a significant proportion of children despite standard surgical treatment. The lecture examines risk factors associated with treatment failure, recommended reevaluation pathways, and the role of repeat sleep studies and drug-induced sleep endoscopy in identifying residual sites of airway obstruction. Dr. Watson provides a comprehensive overview of treatment options, including weight management, positive airway pressure therapy, pharmacologic interventions, and adjunctive therapies. She also discusses contemporary surgical strategies tailored to specific sites of obstruction, including revision adenoidectomy, expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty, lingual tonsillectomy, hypoglossal nerve stimulation, and supraglottoplasty. The presentation highlights current evidence, consensus recommendations, and practical considerations for optimizing outcomes in children with persistent OSA through a multidisciplinary, individualized approach.

Human Olfaction and Pathophysiology of Smell Loss
Eric Holbrook, MD - Massachusetts Eye and Ear / Harvard Medical School
Thursday, July 9, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Eric H. Holbrook, MD Chief and Director of the Division of Rhinology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, presents an in-depth review of human olfaction and the pathophysiology of smell loss. Dr. Holbrook explores the biology of the olfactory epithelium, mechanisms of neural regeneration, and the impact of aging, viral infections, head trauma, and other conditions on olfactory function. He discusses lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, the science underlying parosmia and phantosmia, and emerging research into stem cell–based therapies, olfactory training, and future olfactory implant technologies. The session concludes with a lively discussion on patient evaluation, imaging, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, smell retraining, and long-term recovery prospects. This presentation provides clinicians and researchers with a comprehensive overview of current knowledge and future directions in the diagnosis and treatment of olfactory disorders.

Beyond PRP: The Role of Exosomes in Regenerative Facial Aesthetics
Amy Leming, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Dr. Amy Leming explores Beyond PRP: The Role of Exosomes in Regenerative Facial Aesthetics, offering a timely look at the science and clinical potential of exosome-based therapies. She reviews the current understanding of exosome biology, including their role in intercellular signaling and tissue regeneration, and examines the evolving evidence on their efficacy and limitations in aesthetic applications. Dr. Leming also highlights practical considerations for clinicians, including appropriate use cases, safety concerns, and the regulatory landscape surrounding these emerging therapies. This session provides a balanced, evidence-based perspective for providers interested in advancing regenerative approaches to facial aesthetics while maintaining patient safety and compliance. Watch the full presentation on our Vimeo channel to stay informed on innovations shaping the future of ENT and facial aesthetics.

A Systematic Approach to Evaluation and Management of Facial Paralysis
Hannah DellaCroce, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, May 28, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Dr. Hannah DellaCroce presents A Systematic Approach to Evaluation and Management of Facial Paralysis, offering a clear, clinically grounded framework for approaching this complex condition. She reviews the anatomy of the facial nerve and the underlying pathophysiology of nerve injury, helping clinicians build a strong foundation for understanding disease presentation. Dr. DellaCroce then outlines a structured approach to evaluating patients with facial paralysis, emphasizing key clinical decision points and diagnostic considerations. The session concludes with practical, evidence-based management strategies for common etiologies, including when to pursue medical therapy, advanced diagnostics, or surgical intervention. This presentation provides valuable, applicable insights for otolaryngologists, trainees, and multidisciplinary care teams seeking to improve patient outcomes through thoughtful, systematic care.

Disrupted: How AI Is Reshaping Access to High-Quality Healthcare
Regan Bergmark, MD - Mass General Brigham
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Grand Rounds, Regan Bergmark, MD, MPH, FACS, a rhinologist and endoscopic skull base surgeon at Mass General Brigham and Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School, explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping access to high-quality healthcare. Dr. Bergmark frames AI as both a powerful disruptor and a necessary response to rising costs, fragmented care pathways, and disparities in the U.S. health system. Drawing on her research in head and neck cancer, she highlights how insurance gaps, transportation barriers, and social determinants of health delay diagnosis and treatment, with profound consequences for patients. A major focus of the talk is language access, where she presents practical innovations—such as mobile interpreter platforms and emerging AI-enabled tools—to reduce communication gaps for patients with limited English proficiency. She also reviews current data on patient use of AI for health information, clinician adoption of AI scribes, and the policy, ethical, and regulatory challenges ahead. Dr. Bergmark concludes by emphasizing the need for clinician leadership, rigorous evaluation, and thoughtful partnerships to ensure AI improves access, equity, and patient outcomes rather than exacerbating existing gaps.

Glow from Home: An Evidence-Based Guide to At-Home Facial Devices
Bonnie Chen, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Dr. Bonnie Chen presents an evidence-based, practical review of at-home facial rejuvenation devices and how clinicians can thoughtfully counsel patients navigating an increasingly crowded marketplace. Dr. Chen classifies home-use devices by mechanism—including lasers, LEDs, radiofrequency, IPL, ultrasound, microcurrent, and microneedling—and clearly distinguishes marketing claims from published clinical evidence. Drawing on peer-reviewed trials and systematic reviews, she highlights which devices have meaningful data to support their use, which serve best as adjuncts or maintenance tools, and which should be approached with caution or avoided altogether. Particular attention is given to patient selection, safety considerations (including Fitzpatrick skin type), expected magnitude of benefit, and realistic timelines for results. This Grand Rounds provides a clear, clinically useful framework for answering common patient questions, setting appropriate expectations, and integrating home-use devices into comprehensive aesthetic and reconstructive care when appropriate.

Parathyroid Autofluorescence: Implications for Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery
Ugur Nur Basmaci, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, April 9, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Dr. Ugur Basmaci presents a comprehensive overview of parathyroid autofluorescence and its implications for thyroid and parathyroid surgery. This lecture explores the underlying optical and physiological principles of near-infrared autofluorescence, compares available image-based and probe-based technologies, and critically examines the growing body of clinical evidence supporting their use. Dr. Basmaci highlights why parathyroid preservation remains a persistent challenge—even in experienced hands—and discusses how emerging autofluorescence technologies may reduce inadvertent parathyroidectomy and postoperative hypocalcemia. The presentation also addresses practical considerations, limitations, and appropriate clinical scenarios for adoption, making it valuable for both trainees and experienced surgeons.

The Modern Male Patient in Facial Plastic Surgery: Globalization of Aesthetics and Surgical Considerations
Vivian Jin, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology Grand Rounds, Vivian Jin, MD, presents an engaging and clinically relevant discussion focused on advancing care within otolaryngology–head and neck surgery. This session highlights key diagnostic considerations, evidence-based management strategies, and practical insights that are directly applicable to both academic and clinical practice. Dr. Jin integrates current literature with real-world experience, emphasizing multidisciplinary collaboration and patient-centered decision-making. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of disease processes, treatment nuances, and emerging trends shaping the field. Whether you are a trainee, practicing clinician, or researcher, this presentation offers valuable perspectives to enhance clinical reasoning and improve patient outcomes.

The Evolution of the Facelift: From SMAS to Deep Plane
Shaina Gong, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston ORL Grand Rounds, Shaina Gong, MD, presents a comprehensive review of the evolution of facelift surgery, tracing its progression from early skin-only techniques to contemporary deep plane and composite approaches. Dr. Gong reviews the historical milestones that shaped modern facial rejuvenation, including the development of SMAS-based techniques and the recognition of facial retaining ligaments as key drivers of aging and surgical outcomes. She provides a detailed overview of layered facial anatomy, emphasizing the SMAS, retaining ligaments, facial spaces, and facial nerve considerations that guide safe and effective surgical dissection. The presentation compares commonly used facelift techniques—SMAS plication, SMASectomy, high SMAS, deep plane, extended deep plane, and composite facelifts—highlighting differences in planes of dissection, vectors of lift, durability, and complication profiles. Dr. Gong concludes by reviewing outcomes data and safety considerations, underscoring that technique selection should prioritize patient anatomy, goals, and surgeon expertise rather than perceived differences in complication rates alone.

Beyond Blowout Fractures: A Volume-Based Approach to Orbital Trauma
Salman Hasan, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston ORL Grand Rounds recording, Salman Hasan, MD, delivers a comprehensive and clinically grounded presentation titled “Beyond Blowout Fractures: A Volume‑Based Approach to Orbital Trauma.” Dr. Hasan challenges the traditional focus on defect size alone and instead emphasizes orbital volume and geometry as the key drivers of long‑term functional and aesthetic outcomes. Using clear CT imaging examples, he reviews fracture patterns that place patients at higher risk for late enophthalmos, including posterior floor involvement, medial wall bowing, inframedial strut disruption, and zygomaticomaxillary complex rotation. The talk connects radiographic findings to real‑world decision‑making, highlighting when careful observation is appropriate and when earlier surgical intervention should be considered. This video is particularly valuable for otolaryngologists, facial plastic surgeons, and trainees seeking a practical, imaging‑based framework for managing orbital trauma and counseling patients about expectations and outcomes.

Odontogenic Neoplasms
Gianna Rosamilia, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston ORL Grand Rounds, Dr. Gianna Rosamilia presents a comprehensive and clinically grounded review of odontogenic neoplasms. Using a challenging recurrent ameloblastoma case to frame the discussion, she reviews dental embryology, tumor classification, epidemiology, diagnostic workup, and management principles. Dr. Rosamilia highlights the 2022 WHO classification system, emphasizing distinctions among benign epithelial, mesenchymal, mixed, and malignant odontogenic tumors, and underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by overlapping radiographic and histopathologic features. The presentation explores surgical management strategies, recurrence risks, and follow-up considerations, with particular attention to ameloblastoma subtypes and emerging molecular insights such as BRAF mutations and their therapeutic implications. She concludes with a thoughtful discussion of malignant odontogenic tumors, multidisciplinary care considerations, and the limitations of current evidence due to the rarity of these entities, providing a valuable overview for both trainees and practicing clinicians.

Thyroid Ablation: What Every Otolaryngologist Needs To Know
Alexander Simko, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, January 22, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston ORL Grand Rounds, Alexander Simko, MD presents a comprehensive overview of the expanding role of thyroid ablation in modern endocrine and otolaryngology practice. Dr. Simko reviews current minimally invasive treatment modalities—including radiofrequency ablation (RFA), laser ablation, and ethanol ablation—highlighting indications, contraindications, and comparative outcomes relative to conventional thyroid surgery. The session emphasizes evidence‑based patient selection, nodule characteristics that predict success, and practical considerations for procedural planning. Dr. Simko discusses ultrasound‑guided techniques, device selection, and risk‑mitigation strategies that enhance procedural safety and long‑term efficacy. Clinical data are summarized to illustrate expected outcomes, durability of response, and preservation of thyroid function. With rising interest in non‑operative treatment options, thyroid ablation offers meaningful benefits for appropriately selected patients. This Grand Rounds provides clinicians with a pragmatic framework for incorporating thyroid ablation into contemporary, patient‑centered care pathways.

Otogenic Skull Base Osteomyelitis: Diagnosis and Management
Abigail Watson, MD - UTHealth Houston Otorhinolaryngology
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Video
In this UTHealth Houston ORL Grand Rounds, Dr. Abigail Watson presents an in-depth review of otogenic skull base osteomyelitis, highlighting its rare but serious nature. She discusses typical presentations, risk factors such as diabetes and immunosuppression, and the diagnostic challenges posed by subtle early symptoms. Dr. Watson emphasizes the importance of CT and MRI imaging, the role of cultures, and the need for a high index of suspicion in at-risk patients. Treatment strategies focus on prolonged IV and oral antibiotics, with surgery reserved for refractory cases or diagnostic uncertainty. The session includes illustrative patient cases, staging systems, and adjunct therapies like hyperbaric oxygen.