Otolaryngology (pronounced oh/toe/lair/in/goll/oh/jee) is the oldest medical specialty in the United States. Otolaryngologists are commonly referred to as ENT physicians.
| 1546 | Account published of first documented successful tracheotomy |
| 1806 | Dutrochet introduces concept of vocal cord movement |
| 1898 | Carbon-type hearing aid first produced |
| 1924 | Otolaryngology specialty board (second such board in U.S.) is formed |
| 1984 | FDA approves first cochlear implant for marketing |
| 1988 | First wearable digital signal processing hearing aid produced |