Message OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY HEAD & NECK NURSES GROUP INC Increasing knowledge, skills and expertise in otorhinolaryngology, head, and neck patient care. Conference Booklet28th Annual National ConferenceICC Sydney, March 28-30, 2025 IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY HEAD & NECK NURSES GROUP INC Increasing knowledge, skills and expertise in otorhinolaryngology, head and neck patient care. Who Are We OHNNG is a not for profit national organisation that provides educational opportunities for all nurses & allied health professionals working in the specialty of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck surgery.Mission StatementIt is the mission of OHNNG to promote excellence in Otorhinolaryngology Head & Neck Nursing (ORL H&N) & Patient care. It strives to achieve this by acting as a resource and link to all ORL H&N nurses irrespective of their geographical location or area of practice.OHNNG facilitates the development and dissemination of research and resources in collaboration with all medical and allied health staff, which contributes to the advances in Otorhinolaryngology Head & Neck Nursing.Objectives of OHNNGTo increase understanding, knowledge and skill in Otolaryngology, head & neck patient careTo provide members with educational opportunities & financial assistance to enhance their professional practiceTo establish & promote Otolaryngology, head & neck nursing as a specialised fieldTo keep members of the group informed of the latest developments in Otorhinolaryngology, head & neck surgery, nursing & equipmentTo act as a resource group for peers, within the group & to outside bodiesTo bring members of the group into closer contact with each other & to promote interaction for their mutual benefitTo develop links with organisations with similar objectives, nationally & internationallyTo promote the highest standards of care for Otorhinolaryngology, head & neck patients
ABN: 88 864 363 478 www.ohnng.com.au president@ohnng.com.au OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY HEAD & NECK NURSES GROUP INC Increasing knowledge, skills and expertise in otorhinolaryngology, head and neck patient care. Foreword On behalf of the Otorhinolaryngology Head & Neck Nurses Group, I am delighted to invite you to the 28th Annual Scientific Meeting, held in conjunction with our ASOHNS colleagues in the picturesque city of Sydney. This year we celebrate excellence and expertise in our dynamic field, and the event promises to be a remarkable opportunity for professional growth, knowledge sharing and networking. I would like to acknowledge and thank our Gold sponsor GSK, our breakfast and badge sponsors Smith & Nephew and Medtronic. The conference will feature a comprehensive program including some of the leading experts in our specialised field. Participate in hands-on session to enhance your practical skills or why not engage with peers on current challenges and advancements in our open panel discussions. Furthermore, connect with fellow nurses across the country and around the world to explore and share the latest evidence-based practice. I look forward to welcoming you as we explore new horizons in otolaryngology nursing.Marin Duvnjak ENT Nurse Practitioner OHNNG President
OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY HEAD & NECK NURSES GROUP INC Increasing knowledge, skills and expertise in otorhinolaryngology, head and neck patient care. Meet our TeamCommittee PresidentMarin Duvnjak president@ohnng.com.auTreasuerLyn Jones treasurer@ohnng.com.auSecretary Nicola Nielsen nicola.nielsen90@gmail.comState Co-ordinatorsNSW MetroVacant NSW RegionalMelissa ReinikkaMelissa.Reinikka@health.nsw.gov.auVictoria John Paul Sowardsvictoria@ohnng.com.auSouth Australia Tracey Nichols sa@ohnng.com.auQueenslandCheryl Kelly cherylkelly@optusnet.com.auPositions VacantWestern Australia, ACT , Tasmania and Northern Territory, Website and Social Media CordinatorIf you would be interested in leading one of these chapters please reach out to President@OHNNG.com.au Mentoring and support available
General House KeepingPlease be respectful to our speakers, keep your Mobile phones and devices on silentVenueThe meeting will be held at the ICC Sydney from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 March 2025. For more information on the venue please visit: https://iccsydney.com.au/Look out for the OHNNG Banners! Industry Exhibition:The industry exhibition is located in The Gallery, Level 2, ICC Sydney.Exhibition Open Hours:Friday 28 March 2025 10:00am – 5:00pmSaturday 29 March 2025 8:00am – 5:00pmSunday 30 March 2025 9:00am – 11:30amInternet FacilitiesWireless internet will be available throughout the meeting. Details will be made available onsite.ParkingParkingPlease refer to the ICC Sydney website for parking options: https://iccsydney.com.au/visitors/getting-here/Name BadgesYour name badge is essential for entry into scientific sessions and functions. Please collect your name badge from the registration desk prior to entering the sessions.Dress CodeScientific Sessions: Smart casualGala Dinner: Lounge suit / cocktail attireMorning Teas, Lunches and Afternoon TeasAll morning teas, lunches and afternoon teas will be served in the industry exhibition at The Gallery Level 2 ICC Sydney
Friday's Program
Saturday's Program
Sunday's Program
Social Events Welcome ReceptionDate: Friday 28 March 2025Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pmLocation: Pyrmont Theatre Foyer, Level Two (2), ICC SydneyI encourage you all to come along and attend. The welcome reception will be held at the close of Friday’s program.This is probably our best opportunity to get together in a social setting.The cost of attending is included in your conference registration fees and Istrongly encourage you to join us. There is always a nice vibe at theseevents and it’s a great opportunity to chat to conference participants andperhaps catch up with past and present colleagues.
Social Events Gala DinnerGala DinnerDate: Saturday 29 March 2025Time: 7:00pm - 11:00pmLocation: Grand Ballroom, Hyatt Regency, SydneyShine bright like a diamond and join us in celebrating our 75th anniversary at the Gala Dinner. Dress in your glitz and glitter, and get ready to dance the night away.Please collect your ticket upon registration if you believe it was included in your conference registration.This all inclusive event includes the ASOHNS Presidents address andaward ceremony. It is an enjoyable night and definitely worth thesubsidised cost.Arrange with other delegates to sit together or sit with unknown folks andmake new friends. If you’re concerned you’ll be on your own – feel free tospeak with an OHNNG coordinator or executive and we will find or hold aspot for you. The dress code for the gala dinner is described as loungesuit/cocktail dress.
Venue Map We are Located on Level 3 ICC in Room C3.3
Speaker Biographies Friday 28th March SESSION 10830-0900 Safe & Unsafe Tympanic Membrane PerforationsDr Nirmal Patel Nirmal completed his ENT Training in 2002 graduating from the New South Wales ENT Training programme. Nirmal then completed a higher degree in surgery (a Master of Surgery) with training at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and New York University, USA under the guidance of Professor Anil Lalwani (Past President of the American Neurotology Society). His Master of Surgery Thesis was undertaken in Gene and Stem Cell Therapy of the Inner Ear. Following this period Nirmal undertook his second post training sub-speciality period with Professor Clough Shelton (the Past President of the American Neuro-otology Society) learning advanced ear surgery at the University of Utah, USA. He returned to Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney in 2006 as an Otologist/ Neurotologist. Since then he has performed over 800 endoscopic ear surgeries. He is a Clinical Professor of Surgery at Macquarie University and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Sydney.0900-0930- TORS Why When & How Dr Peter Floros Dr. Peter Floros is an Australian trained Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon) and Head and Neck Surgeon working in Sydney, NSW and Canberra, ACT.Dr. Floros completed an international surgical fellowship in Advanced Head and Neck Oncology surgery with Dr. J. Scott Magnuson at Advent Health Celebration Hospital, Orlando, Florida where he became the first Australian surgeon to perform a robotic Head and Neck Cancer operation with the Davinci Single Port Robotic system. 0930-10:00- Cracking the Cough Code: Diagnosis and Treatment Options Kate Sandham Kate currently works as a transitional nurse practitioner in the sub specialist field of laryngology.Kate is committed to delivering best practice in healthcare. She shares the team’s passion for academic research to drive innovation, and develop and implement personalised care plans to meet the needs of each patient. Kate endeavours to provide support and education with a focus on effective communication to the wonderful patients and families that visit us at Sydney ENT Specialists.
Speaker Biographies SESSION 21030-11:00 Peadiatric Airway Surgery Key Note SpeakerDr Shazia PeerShazia is an Associate Professor in the Division of Otolaryngology, at the University of Cape Town, and is the Head of Paediatric Otolaryngology services at the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. After completing a 2-year Paediatric Otolaryngology fellowship at SickKids Hospital in Toronto, Canada, she returned to Cape Town and has since established the Paediatric Reconstructive Airway Surgery Team, a multidisciplinary group of sub-specialists committed to advancing paediatric airway management in sub Saharan Africa. Shazia is the program director of the first paediatric ENT fellowship in Sub Saharan Africa, now in its 6th year. She is also the chair of PENTAfrica (Paediatric ENT society in Africa), and the founder of C.A.P.E (Centre for Advanced Paediatric ENT). Shazia started RRPAfrica.org, a web-based advocacy project aimed at raising awareness for HPV vaccination programmes in Africa to prevent the next generation of juvenile respiratory papillomatosis. Shazia is a leading voice and advocate for ENT-related conditions affecting African child11:00-11:30: Head & Neck ablative surgery Key Note Speaker Dr Katie Fedder Dr Katie Fedder is a fellowship trained Head and Neck Oncologic and Microvascular Surgeon at the University of Virginia. She completed her residency training at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia and fellowship in head and neck at the University of Miami in Florida. Dr Fedder’s clinical practice encompasses the surgical treatment of benign and malignant diseases of the head and neck. Her special expertise lies in complex microvascular reconstruction of the head and neck, which is often required after removal of large tumors in order to minimize functional and aesthetic deficits. She is also trained in transoral robotic surgery utilizing the da Vinci system. 11:30-12:00: Journeys & Innovations in ENT Key Note Speaker Dr Darlene LubeDarlene Lubbe is a Professor in the Division of Otolaryngology at Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa. Her main interest is endoscopic sinus, skull base and transorbital surgery. She currently runs the Karl Storz training programme in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery for Sub-Saharan Africa. She has published 56 articles in peer reviewed journals and authored 10 book chapters on transorbital surgery. She is also a co-inventor of the Trachealator non-occlusive airway balloon for the management of tracheal stenosis. This device was the Gold winner at the Medical Design Excellence awards in the USA in 2021.
Speaker Biographies 12:00-12:30: Salivary Gland Pathology Dr Faruque Riffat Faruque Riffat is an UK and Australian trained ENT Head and Neck Surgeon with post FRACS fellowship training (Cambridge University Hospital, UK) in surgery for head and neck cancers, thyroid, salivary glands, laser, voice and swallowing disorders. He also treats a full range of general adult and paediatric ear, nose and sinus and throat disorders. He completed his medical training in UNSW (MBBS) in addition to a Master of Surgery (MS). In 2015, Dr Riffat completed the training requirements for transoral robotic surgery for cancer and sleep apnoea surgery at University of Pennsylvania (USA) to be accredited in the latest DaVinci robot technology. He was also awarded the fellowship of the international college of surgeons (FICS). In 2016, Dr Riffat was made Fellow of American College of Surgeons (FACS), again one of the few Australian surgeons to be made a fellow of the largest surgical college worldwide (www.facs.org).In 2024, A/Prof Riffat was awarded the distinguished guest scholar award of the American College of Surgeons 2024 - this is a highly acclaimed award with periods of attachment to some of the largest ENT departments in the USA. A/Prof Riffat is also the director and supervisor for ENT Training at Westmead Hospital as well as a clinical academic at University of Sydney, Western Sydney and Macquarie. He supervises and teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Speaker Biographies Session 313:30-14:00 Microtia, Paediatric Hearing OutcomesDr Rithvik Reddy Dr Reddy is an Australian trained ENT specialist with further subspecialty fellowship training in Otology. He is here to present on Microtia, and hearing outcomes as well as some other congenitalhearing loss causes. 14:00-15:00 Rhinoplasty & Facial Cosmetic Surgery Dr George Marcells Dr Marcells has studied for more than 18 years to achieve his highly specialised surgical qualifications. He has been in practice for over 20 years as a Specialist ENT, Head and Neck Surgeon working exclusively in the field of Facial Plastic Surgery.He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and a Member of the Australian Society of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery (ASOHNS).He is the past President of the Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery (having been President for 6 years from 2012 – 2018) and is the Australian representative for the International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgery Societies (IFFPSS).15:30-16:45 AIRWAY Workshop: Showcasing -Nasoendoscopy with AMBU -Tracheostomy Care with experts in the field -Active Humidifcation with Fisher & Paykel -Laryngectomy consumables with ATOS
Speaker Biographies Saturday 29th March SESSION 40800-0830 Paediatric Allergic RhinitisDr Raewyn Campbell Associate Professor Raewyn Campbell currently works as a dedicated Rhinologist and Skull Base surgeon in Australia. Raewyn completed 3 international fellowships in Rhinology and Skull Base surgery in Auckland, New Zealand and Philadelphia and Columbus, USA. Raewyn has published multiple journal articles and book chapters and has presented at specialist conferences worldwide. She is actively involved in teaching medical students and otorhinolaryngology/ENT trainees and teaches at rhinology and skull base courses locally and internationally. Raewyn has also trained surgeons internationally and is actively involved in ongoing rhinology and skull base research. She is on the editorial boards for the Australian Journal of Otolaryngology and Rhinology (Frontiers in Allergy special edition) and is a reviewer for multiple academic journals. She is currently undertaking a PhD at The University of Sydney. Raewyn has an active interest in both paediatric and adult otorhinolaryngology.0830-0900 Breakfast Session 09:00-09:30 Nose Pickers, Intranasal drug use and septal perforations Dr Richard Harvey After several years of post-training fellowships, including formal fellowships in the USA and UK, Richard practises in Sydney, Australia, as one of only a few dedicated rhinologists in the country. He has authored over 250 publications, books, book chapters and completed his PhD in trans-nasal skull base surgery. Richard has presented over 500 lectures and talks on sino-nasal disease management. He is the current Editor-in-chief of the Australian Journal of Otolaryngology (www.TheAJO.com) as well as an associate editor for the Cochrane ENT disorders group currently. Richard contributes to the editorial board for Rhinology Journal, American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy and the International Forum of Allergy and Rhinology and is actively involved in research programs in Sydney. He is the recipient of the Australian Society of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery Medal for Distinguished Contribution to the Art and Science of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, intended to recognise members who are providing outstanding OHNS services beyond their normal practice activities.
Speaker Biographies 00930-10:00 Reconstructive Prosthetics Sophie Fleming Sophie is an Anaplastologist specialising in external prosthetic rehabilitation of the face and body. She is visiting prosthetist, and member of the multidisciplinary cranio-maxillofacial reconstruction team, and comprehensive ear clinic at the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.Sophie is passionate about reconstructive prosthetics. Particularly how the intersection of art practice, health science, and new technologies are evolving this field forward. She collaborates regularly with other specialties to give the best outcome for people requiring facial prostheses and in addition has worked for a number of years within and alongside limb prosthetic facilities providing custom silicone solutions to amputees.Session 51030-11:00 Sinus Surgery and Optimal Sinus CareDr Dak Gunaratne Dr Gunaratne is an Australian trained adult and paediatric ENT surgeon and a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. In addition to treating General ENT disorders, he has advanced subspecialty training in disorders of the Nose and Sinuses. Dr Gunaratne travelled to Vancouver, Canada to spend a further year of advanced training under the tutelage of Professor Andrew Thamboo in managing disorders of the nose, sinuses and anterior skull base.Dr Gunaratne has published articles in numerous peer-reviewed journals and continues to undertake clinical research. He is actively involved in ongoing medical student and junior doctor teaching and training.11:00-11:30 Recon of the jaw in a day Dr Jonathan Clark Professor Clark holds consultant positions in Head and Neck Surgery at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and Royal Prince Alfred hospitals. He is conjoint Chair and Clinical Professor at the University of Sydney, Director of Head and Neck Cancer Research at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, and Director of Translational Research at the Royal Prince Alfred Institute of Academic Surgery (RPA-IAS). Professor Clark’s surgical expertise focusses on salivary gland tumours, precision jaw reconstruction, and transoral robotic surgery (TORS). He has trained over 40 international surgeons in these techniques as part of the highly sought-after Sydney Head and Neck Cancer Institute (SHNCI) Fellowship program. Professor Clark spends his spare time fishing, but his goal is to spend more time with his three sons: Harrison, Jacob, and Sebastian.
Speaker Biographies 11:30-12:00 Latest innovations in nasal airway surgery Dr Catherine Meller Dr Catherine Meller is an Otolaryngologist, Head and Neck and Facial Reconstructive surgeon. She completed her specialist ENT training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, and graduated with honours from the University of Sydney Medical School.She enjoys managing a wide range of adult and paediatric ENT conditions, and is excited to offer cutting-edge facial reconstructive and facial nerve reanimation surgery. Catherine spent 2 years training in innovative centres including the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and John Hopkins Baltimore, in the USA in order to learn both medical and surgical aspects of treating patients with facial nerve disorders, skin cancers, and facial concerns including congenital and post-traumatic conditions.12:00-12:30 Contemporary Facelifts- a marriage of Safety and Quaitify Key Note SpeakerDr Stephen Park Stephen S. Park, MD, is Professor & Chair of the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and the Director of the Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and at the University of Virginia. His primary clinic interest is in the field of facial plastic surgery, particularly facial reconstruction, rejuvenation, and rhinoplasty. He has been the president of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), a Director with the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, vice-chair of the Otolaryngology Residency Review Committee (RRC), and member of the executive committee of the Triological Society’s Council.
Speaker Biographies Session 613:30-14:00 Biologics in ENT Dr Narinder Singh Professor (Prof) Singh is an ENT Specialist Surgeon and is recognised as Sydney’s Nose and Sinus Specialist.Prof Singh is the Head of the ENT Department at Westmead Adult Hospital, Australia’s largest hospital complex, and the Area Director of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery for the Western Sydney Health District.Prof Singh is one of only a handful of Australian surgeons to be fully registered as an ENT specialist in both Australia and the United Kingdom (see Medical Board of Australia Website and UK General Medical Council Website)Prof Singh is the only Australian ENT surgeon to have been awarded a 3 year fully-funded nose, sinus and rhinoplasty fellowship at the world-renowned Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals in London, England.14:00-14:30 GSK Gold Sponsor 14:30-15:00 OHNNG AGM Join us for the annual AGM and have your voice heard. AGM Report & Nominate for State Coordinator
Speaker Biographies Session 715:30-16:00 Otosclerosis and the discharging Ear Dr Melvilve Da Cruz Professor da Cruz is a highly regarded ENT surgeon at Westmead Public and Westmead Private Hospitals, and an Associate Professor of Otolaryngology at the University of Sydney. Professor da Cruz has special clinical interest in disorders of the ear, hearing and temporal bone with expertise in middle ear surgery, cochlear implantation, acoustic tumour surgery, as well as general disorders of the ear, nose and throat.Professor da Cruz graduated from the University of Western Australia and completed his RACS Trainee in Otolaryngology in 1995. This was followed by various fellowships in Australia and UK including the Garnett Passé Foundation funded Fellowship in Otological and Skull base Surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, University of Cambridge.16:00-17:00 Audio-Vestibular Workshop Belinda Kwok Audiologist Edward Tran & Jordan Loveridge Physiotherapists from The DizziClinics How to clinically examine a patient with an audio vestibular disorder. The workshop will showcase:Audiometry VHIT Clinical Assessment of BPPV
Speaker Biographies SESSION 8Sunday 08:30-09:00 Medtronic Breakfast Session09:00-09:30 Transitioning into Nurse Practitioner PracticeMegan Green Megain is a transtional nurse practitioner in the field of ENT Head & Neck Surgery, presenting on her journey that she has embarked on so far on the road to become a fully qualified NP. 09:30-10:00 Mercy-Ship Experience of an ENT Nurse Lana Tutin Lana is a nurse practitioner who will present on her recent scholarship from OHNNG of her Mercy-Ship experience. 10:00-10:30 Endoscopic Middle ear Surgery Dr Hanah North Dr North completed a sub-specialty fellowship in one of the largest centres in the UK that specialises in Otology, Neurotology and Lateral Skull Base Surgery. She sees patients with ear disease, hearing problems and balance issues.10:30-11:00 Private ENT Practice-a model of care Justine Oates Justine is a nurse practitioner who currently works in the private sector. Justine has a wealth of experience as a ent head and neck nurse from her time working as clinical nurse consultant in head and neck cancer. She will be presenting on her current role of a NP in the private sector, 11:30-12:00 Thyroid Surgery Dr Leba Sarkis Dr Leba Michael Sarkis is a dual international fellowship trained Head and Neck and Microvascular reconstructive surgeon. Here he gained a significant amount of experience in skull base surgery, Thyroid and Parathyroid surgery, Robotic surgery, melanoma and complex Head and Neck Reconstruction in Toronto, Canada. This allows him to uniquely practice the entire spectrum of Head and Neck Surgery and further incorporate his dental background to facilitate dental rehabilitation of patients who undergo tumour resection, having practised as a dentist for more than five years prior to his medical training.
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CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE:Delegates that attend the meeting shall receive a certificate of attendance.This document will be collected on you arrival. OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY HEAD & NECK NURSES GROUP INC Increasing knowledge, skills and expertise in otorhinolaryngology, head and neck patient care.