LAUSR

Anatomic dissection prior to examining and treating a living person dates back to Alexandria, Greece in the third century BC. For Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgeons, anatomic dissections, the original “simulators,” have served to prepare them for open approaches to the face, head, and neck, for temporal bone surgery, and for paranasal sinus procedures. But, as with diagnostic and surgical methods and tools, simulation tools and techniques have evolved, most rapidly over the past several years. In this issue of Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America, Dr Sonya Malekzadeh has compiled a thoughtful and thorough review of the state-of-the-art in simulation. The authors of each article share their perspectives on improved education in the field as well as using simulation and technology to better assess trainees’ surgical skills and competency, and for enhancing team performance. The reader who can benefit from this Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America issue ranges from trainee to senior otolaryngologist and those in academic to private practice. This issue will be of interest to those who are responsible for oversight of medical student and otolaryngology resident/ fellow education and anyone who is committed to continuing education and selfimprovement. Given the scarcity, cost, and relative unavailability of “original” simulators of cadaveric human tissue, the lifelong learner of Otolaryngology should become familiar with the newer physical models and virtual reality simulators that are available during training and beyond. The surgeon who has become familiar with endonasal and other rhinologic approaches, with airway management in adults and children, and with simple to complex otologic procedures with near-natural haptic feedback, all via simulation carried out in a nonstressful setting where repeated practice is possible, will be a better-prepared surgeon when operating in the real setting. I, personally, have drilled out a mastoid on a 3D printed temporal bone; the realism is astonishing.