OTOVATION Department Newsletter

January 2026

New Approach to Bilateral Microtia Reconstruction

A nine-year-old boy born without external ears or ear canals now has two functional ears, thanks to Noel Jabbour, MD, MS, FACS, Director of the Congenital Ear Center at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. To Dr. Jabbour’s knowledge, this may be the first bilateral microtia reconstruction of this type performed in the United States, with prior cases reported in England and China.

Highlights of the Pediatric Otolaryngology Division

The Pediatric Otolaryngology Division continues to demonstrate exceptional growth, clinical excellence, innovation, and national leadership. With a robust team of 11 attending physicians, nine advanced practice providers, and a dedicated research professor, the Division delivers comprehensive, high-quality care at the Main Children’s Hospital campus in Pittsburgh and across five satellite clinics (Bridgeville, Erie, Johnstown, Monroeville, and Wexford), ensuring broad access for families throughout the region.

Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Performs First Inspire V Implant for Sleep Apnea

In November, Rachel Whelan, MD, and her team successfully implanted the first Inspire V device at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Inspire is an innovative treatment for severe obstructive sleep apnea. Think of it like a pacemaker for the tongue.

Pediatric Vocal Cord Dysfunction Clinic

Do you have difficulty breathing in your throat during times of intense physical activity? Does it resolve soon after with rest?

If you live in the Pittsburgh region, answer yes to these questions, and are under the age of 26, you would likely be referred to the Pediatric Vocal Cord Dysfunction Clinic (VCD) at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

A Vital Partner

The Eye & Ear Foundation of Pittsburgh, an independent 501(c)(3) organization, was founded in 1985 to foster philanthropic support for the Departments of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh. The goal is to keep moving forward, expanding EEF’s support network, and helping the Departments achieve unparalleled distinction in research, education, outreach, and patient care.