Back to where it all started 20 years ago: (L-R) Prof Shahed Quraishi, Mr Kevin Gibbin, Prof Patrick Bradley, Prof Anshul Sama and Prof Nick Jones.
E Tian Tan, ST4 Otolaryngology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK.
It was inspirational to hear the opening address from Professor Shahed Quraishi, course director of ENT Masterclass®, detailing its humble beginnings from an FRCS preparation course to its current global presence. Few courses can boast overcoming cultural and language barriers to deliver free high-quality ENT education across four continents. A warm welcome followed from Mr Richard Parker, Chief Executive of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital Foundation Trust.
Across three days, delegates heard from a range of experts. The first day had a focus on paediatrics and otology. Speakers included Mr Michael Kuo, Ms Paula Coyle, Mr Asad Qayyum, Ms Emma Stapleton, Professor Shak Saeed, Professor Dan Jiang, Professor Peter Rea and Mr Arun Iyer. Topics ranged from paediatric airway problems to endoscopic ear surgery and vestibular disorders. This was followed by small group viva sessions that were particularly helpful for trainees approaching their exams. Delegates and faculty were treated to a complementary sumptuous dinner to celebrate 20 years of ENT Masterclass®.
Mr Anthony Bashyam, AOT President, started day two highlighting important AOT work such as on the wellbeing of ENT doctors. Professor Bindy Sahota followed with FRCS tips, having achieved the Gold Medal himself. The rest of the day featured Professor Anshul Sama, Mr Shahz Ahmed, Professor Oliver Kaschke, Professor Claire Hopkins, Mr Aftab Ahmed, Miss Catherine Rennie, Professor Hesham Saleh and Professor Tim Woolford with rhinology topics ranging from basic principles of sinus surgery to advanced reconstruction techniques in facial plastics.
The highlight of the final day was undoubtedly the Guest Lecture by Professor Vin Paleri. He discussed artificial intelligence, genomics and molecular mapping, leading one to ponder the future of head and neck surgery. Miss Nazia Munir, Mr Wale Olarinde, Ms Susannah Penney, Mr Jai Manick, Mr James O’Hara and Mr Rishi Srivastava all gave excellent talks in head and neck surgery.
Thanks to the generosity of colleagues in industry, delegates were able to enter a free prize draw. Lucky delegates received either a free ENT textbook or a commemorative bone china mug, but the luckiest one of all was Dr James Holland, who walked away with an Apple iPad (left).
Those who are now experiencing fear of missing out (FoMO), fear not! Recorded lectures are available on the ENT Masterclass® YouTube Channel. The website itself is a treasure trove of knowledge, but nothing beats attending the Masterclass in person, so book your spot early for the next ENT Masterclass® on 24–26 January 2025.
Above: Ms Emma Stapleton compering speeches during the dinner celebrating 20 years of ENT Masterclass®.
