Cochrane - Auckland 2012

Lisa Ishii, MD
Primary area of interest is role of multilevel sleep surgery in obstructive sleep apnea.

"The lessons I learned at the Cochrane Colloquium were invaluable and have redefined my approach to the review process. Our exposure to the Cochrane methodologists and other participants gave us a new understanding of the philosophy behind the rigorous Cochrane review process. We were able to review elements of the analysis from the methodologists who initially described them in the literature. Before the meeting I had a very superficial understanding of the systematic review process, but now appreciate a much deeper understanding. Further, I was able to network with colleagues in otolaryngology with similar aspirations that will lead to future collaborations and overall better products in our specialty."

Stephanie Misono, MD, MPH
Primary area of interest is laryngology.

"Attending the Cochrane collaboration meeting gave me a valuable opportunity to learn more about how these methodologies are developed and utilized. I also appreciated the chance to receive guidance on which of my potential topic ideas might be most appropriate for these methodologies. The thought-provoking presentations and discussions at the meeting and among our otolaryngology Cochrane team have had a meaningful impact on how I approach the literature, and I am very grateful to have had this experience."

Cecelia E. Schmalbach, MD
Proposed topic: Role of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy for High-Risk Head & Neck Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

"Attending the Cochrane Colloquium provided a unique appreciation for the scientific value of a properly conducted systematic review. The Colloquium was far more than a one-time experience in that I left with an entirely new skill set, as well as resources for both writing and critiquing systematic reviews. More importantly, Cochrane fostered a collegial environment with statisticians, epidemiologists, clinicians, and my fellow AAO-HNS colleagues. In doing so, I walked away with valuable relationships from which enjoyable, successful collaborations are certain to ensue!"

Travis T. Tollefson, MD
Proposed topic: Role of routine grommet insertion in infants with cleft palate

"The opportunity to attend the Cochrane Colloquium this last fall answered many questions about the methods of structured reviews, but also provided a catalyst to propel my interest in evidenced based medicine. The collaboration with other the scholars and the mentors was a once in a lifetime experience, allowing for discussion, critique, and develop of new review questions. "