Step Into the Action: Hands-On Simulation

Imagine stepping into a space where you can practice complex procedures, test new tools, and sharpen decision-making skills—all without risk to patients. That’s the power of Simulation Education at the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO. From hands-on surgical training to interactive escape rooms, simulation brings learning to life in exciting, unforgettable ways. Over two dozen new and returning simulation events offer an interactive, hands-on format to enhance your surgical skills during the Annual Meeting.

According to Katherine Kavanagh, MD, Chair of the AAO-HNSF Simulation Education Committee, “Simulation education at the Annual Meeting offers an exciting way for attendees to augment traditional didactic learning by practicing both technical and non-technical skills. Simulation offers the opportunity to practice procedures and refine skills without risks to patients and fosters hands-on learning, team-based training, and the opportunity to learn new skills.

“Integrating simulation within the footprint of the Annual Meeting is an exciting way to learn from experts and practice skills,” she went on to say. “There is something for everyone including microtia reconstruction, rhinoplasty, maxillary and mandible reconstruction, and more.”

The Simulation Education Committee also sponsors A Puzzling Night on Call: An Otolaryngology Escape Room Experience, during which participants compete to solve otolaryngology logic-based puzzles and skill-based simulation tasks. “I encourage all attendees to participate in the simulation events, have fun, and enrich their education,” Dr. Kavanagh shared.

Additionally, the Simulation Showcase provides an opportunity for simulation scholars to demonstrate their innovative otolaryngology simulators, projects, and curriculum. The top three most innovative simulation projects will present to a panel of expert judges while competing for the top prize during the SIM Tank. Projects are judged on innovation, creativity, scalability throughout the specialty, and advancement of training and practice in the field.

A Puzzling Night on Call: An Otolaryngology Escape Room Experience (3rd Annual) will take place on Sunday, October 12, from 1:00 – 2:00 pm in the Simulation Pavilion 1, and again on Sunday, October 12, from 2:30 – 3:30 pm in the Simulation Pavilion 1. The pavilion is located in the OTO EXPO.

Both the Simulation Showcase and SIM Tank events will be held on Sunday, October 12, from 5:00 – 6:30 pm in the White River Ballroom F.

Simulation Center

The Simulation Center returns with an expanded offering of simulation education sessions and hands-on surgical skills training. Additional highlights of this year’s simulation sessions include the following opportunities:

• leveling up your surgical techniques through immersive ear reconstruction workshops
• Precision nasal osteotomy on innovative 3D-printed models
• Advanced maxillofacial reconstruction training with live demonstrations
• And much more

Develop your professional skills with powerful coaching strategies and realistic emergency airway management scenarios. Participants can also explore highly specialized sessions including sleep medicine innovations and advanced data analysis techniques.

Simulation Showcase topics include:

• A 3D Simulation Training Model for Endoscopic Zenker’s Diverticulotomy
• A 3D-Printed Pediatric External and Middle Ear Model for Simulation of Endoscopic Myringotomy Tube Insertion
• CochleaSim: Understanding and decision making in cochlear malformations with help of simulated 3D models
• Feasibility of Artificial Temporal Bone as a Dissection Practice Tool
• Modified Face Model Simulation to Enhance Safety for Botulinum Toxin Facial Injections and Prevent Complications
• Refinement of a Laryngotracheal Cleft Model and the Implications of Simulation on Surgeon Preparation and Performance
• And more!

SIM Tank topics include:

• Advancing Laryngology Simulation: A Novel 3D Printed and PVA-Based Model for Electrocautery and Laser Training
• Development and Validation of a Hybrid Simulation Model for Septoplasty Training
• Nose Dive into the SinusVRse: Using Virtual Reality Gaming to Navigate Paranasal Sinus Anatomy

These exciting sessions represent just a sampling of the comprehensive learning opportunities available throughout the program. To learn more, visit the full Education Program and select “Simulation Education” to view session times, speakers, summaries of each session’s content and learning objectives, and CME/MOC credit. Or visit:

https://www.entnet.org/events/annual-meeting/program/simulation-events/