Congress Report Dublin 2024

Held from June 15 to 19 at the Dublin Convention Centre, this was an unmissable event for ENT surgeons and allied health professionals across the world. Hosted by Professor John Russell, the President of the Confederation, the event brought together over 3,400 specialists from all over the globe to share the latest advancements, research, and clinical practices.

The Dublin Convention Centre, with its state-of-the-art facilities and stunning views of the River Liffey, provided an ideal setting for the congress. Over the course of five days, delegates were treated to a broad array of presentations and workshops covering various aspects of otorhinolaryngology. Keynote speakers included renowned experts from every continent discussing groundbreaking research and innovative treatments, while educational sessions catered to every level of trainee.

Delegates were spoiled for choice with as many as 16 parallel sessions. These sessions, under the chairmanship of Michael Kuo, provided comprehensive discussions on all aspects of otolaryngology, attended by both trainees and senior surgeons. Topics spanned the latest clinical practices, research findings and emerging technologies, ensuring that every delegate could find sessions relevant to their interests and specialties. Additionally, the scientific programme included mentorship sessions and practical workshops, offering guidance and support to the next generation of ENT specialists.

On Monday night, attendees enjoyed a memorable evening at the Guinness Storehouse at St. James's Gate. The event was a delightful mix of socializing and local culture, where even the steadiest surgeons’ hands faced challenges in pouring a perfect pint of Guinness!

On Tuesday morning delegates swapped shirts ties and dresses for sneakers and singlets for the early morning charity 5K run held in St. Anne’s Park. Thankfully the sun was shining for the competitive event – with an international field it wouldn’t have looked out of place in Paris next month.

The congress concluded with a closing ceremony that celebrated the successes of the event and outlined future directions for the Confederation. Professor Russell expressed his gratitude to the organizing committee, speakers, and attendees for making the event a resounding success. The conference will surely be seen as a landmark event not just amongst the Irish fraternity, but also across Europe in terms of its superb arrangements and attention to detail. The ‘social wall’ feature on the website was particularly innovative, allowing delegates to post their pictures and messages ‘live’ during the meeting.

Excitement is already building for the next congress, the 8th Congress of the Confederation of European ORL-HNS, which will be held in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2026.

Conference reporter: Mel Corbett, MB BCh BAO, MSC, MRCS, DOHNS, ST 6 Otolaryngology, Saint Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.

This report first appeared in ENT & Audiology News magazine and e-newsletter, online versions of which are available free of charge to readers everywhere via this link.