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In the face of increasing subspecialisation, how does the specialty ensure that the management of ENT emergencies is timely, appropriate and safe?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 May 2016

M J Rouhani
M J Rouhani*
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Miss Maral J Rouhani, UK Fax: +44 (0)161 475 0830 E-mail: maralrouhani@gmail.com
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Abstract

Background:

The field of ENT surgery is one of the most varied specialties, with numerous subspecialties and continuing divergence. With this evolution there comes, however, a risk that specialists become de-skilled in certain areas. In the case of ENT emergencies, this can be particularly dangerous.

Methods:

Current guidance from relevant UK professional membership bodies regarding emergency surgery provision was inspected and a literature search was performed to identify studies relating to management of ENT emergencies in the context of increasing subspecialisation.

Results and conclusion:

The specialty currently has provisions in place to ensure timely, appropriate and safe management of emergencies, in the form of guidelines and emergency clinics; however, there is scope for improvement of the system.

Keywords

SpecializationOtorhinolaryngologyEmergencies
Type
Review Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 130 , Issue 6 , June 2016 , pp. 516 - 520
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2016 

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Footnotes

Presented (and awarded the ENT-UK Undergraduate Essay Prize 2014) at the Annual General Meeting of ENT-UK, 6 February 2015, London, UK.

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