One year of preliminary surgical training in the UCSF surgical program is required prior to beginning the four-year program in Otolaryngology. Within the department active investigative work in the basic sciences is being conducted in the Epstein and Coleman Memorial Laboratories. In addition, during a four month research rotation the resident is expected to design and complete their own research project in otolaryngology during their third year. A structured didactic teaching program has been developed for the residents including three hours on Monday morning, and two to three hours each Wednesday evening. During this time basic science instruction is given in audiology, head and neck dissection, both endoscopic and external sinus surgery, microdissection and histology of the temporal bone, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Formal instruction is given in surgical pathology and histology of the ear, nose and throat.
The majority of residents also participate in the continuing education programs of the American Academy of Otolaryngology including national and regional meetings.