Background: There has been a significant advance in the practice of
otorhinolaryngologic surgery from the simple excisional surgery to
minimally invasive functional endoscopic techniques, reconstruction and
the use of laser. In this review we present our experience of the
otolaryngologic practice in Nigeria Methods: A retrospective review
of clinical record chart of the spectrum of patients seen in the
otorhinolaryngology department in 5 years (2004-2004). We reviewed the
708 patients seen at the outpatient clinic and the 111 surgical
procedures done in one of the top otolaryngologic centres in Nigeria.
Results: Chronic suppurative otitis media accounted for 22% outpatient
consultation, followed by sensorineural hearing losses 12% and
Inflammatory disorders of the sinuses and larynx 16%, head and neck
cancers was lowest 1.3%. In contrast to the spectrum in the clinic,
laryngologic/head and neck surgery accounted for 47 (42%), rhinologic
31 (28%), otologic 29 (26%) and minimal invasive / endoscopic surgeries
4 (4%). Conclusion: The contrast between the high prevalence of CSOM
and high number of laryngologic surgery suggest the limitations faced
by otolaryngolgists in the tropics in terms of unavailability and
inability to afford sophisticated diagnostic and operating equipment
particularly in otologic practice. This will be useful for formulating
exchange of training and fellowship with otolaryngologists in other
parts of the globe and improvement of clinical practice
