BHU ENT Conference Focuses on Skull Base Surgery and AI in Varanasi

Varanasi, June 29, 2026: The Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, hosted MID AOICON 2026, a two-day national scientific workshop focused on advanced ENT training.

The conference was organised in association with the Mahamana ENT Educational Trust at K. N. Udupa Auditorium. BHU's official news record said the programme brought together nearly 250 delegates, including around 150 participants and 60 faculty members from across the country.

The workshop placed special emphasis on skull base surgery, hands-on training and new technology areas, including artificial intelligence in ENT.

Two-Day Conference at IMS-BHU

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi attended the inauguration as chief guest. BHU said he described the event as not only about academics but also experimentation, association-building and the creation of broader guidelines for public benefit.

Prof. S. N. Sankhwar, Director, IMS-BHU, appreciated the workshop's dissection sessions and hands-on training. He also acknowledged the Department of ENT's role in patient care and its growing services.

Hands-On Training and AI in ENT

Among the major attractions were a Cadaveric Anterior and Lateral Skull Base Demonstration Workshop and hands-on modules on vestibular assessment, VNG/PRM evaluation, stroboscopy, artificial intelligence in ENT and sialendoscopy.

Such modules are important because ENT practice is increasingly shaped by specialised anatomy, precise diagnostics and image-guided or technology-assisted decision-making. Workshops allow young surgeons and specialists to observe techniques and discuss clinical challenges in a structured academic setting.

Focus on Surgical Innovation

BHU's report said Prof. Sanjay Gupta, Dean, Faculty of Medicine, called the event a valuable platform for participants to interact with distinguished ENT specialists from across the country. Dr. Naushad V, President-Elect of AOI, said such workshops help disseminate advanced surgical knowledge and strengthen clinical skills.

The organising team also highlighted future focus areas such as robotic surgery and announced orations linked to Mahamana ENT Educational Foundation Trust and late Prof. O. P. Gupta, former head of the Department of ENT.

Why It Matters for Medical Training

Advanced ENT training is important for both tertiary care and teaching hospitals. Skull base surgery requires deep anatomical understanding, precision and multidisciplinary coordination. AI-linked sessions indicate how technology is entering diagnosis, planning and workflow support.

For health and medical education in Varanasi, MID AOICON 2026 strengthens IMS-BHU's position as a centre for specialist academic exchange. The conference also gives postgraduate trainees exposure to experienced faculty and newer surgical approaches.