Results of a European survey on current controversies in Otology

Objective: Various topics in otology cause controversy among otologists internationally. The resulting variety of diagnostic and surgical concepts reflects differences between surgical schools and the lack of structured studies in the field. Interventions: During the "Third Instructional Workshop of the European Academy of Otology and Neuro-Otology," we interviewed 100 invited instructors using a written questionnaire on 13 controversial topics in otology. Results: The analyses of the survey showed a variety of different approaches in most otologic topics. Conclusion: A further exchange of experiences and discussions in expert panels such as the Instructional Workshop of the European Academy of Otology and Neuro-Otology may help standardize concepts in otology for a safe, efficient, and cost-effective standard of care in otology.