The British Endoscopic Ear Group (BEEG) has been created to advance the use and training of endoscopic ear surgery (EES) in the United Kingdom. The group’s establishment follows a period during which EES adoption in the UK lagged behind other countries, despite its increasing popularity across Europe and elsewhere over the last twenty years. Recently, interest in these techniques has risen in Britain, supported by advances in surgical tools, more research publications, and new surgeons trained in both traditional microscopic and newer endoscopic methods.
According to BEEG, "BEEG has been formed to provide a focused forum for collaboration, knowledge sharing and mentorship among surgeons practising – or seeking to develop – endoscopic ear surgery. The group aims to facilitate high-quality training, encourage open discussion of technique and outcomes, and support research and data collection within the UK."
The organization emphasizes that its goal is not to create divisions within the field but rather to make endoscopic approaches a standard option for British otologists. As stated by BEEG, "The long-term vision is not to create division within otology, but to help ensure that endoscopic techniques become part of the standard armamentarium of the modern British otologist."
The first meeting of BEEG is scheduled for Friday 8 May at Royal Derby Hospital. The agenda will review the history and current state of EES in the UK as well as consider future developments. Sessions are planned specifically for trainee input. The event aims to promote academic exchange and networking among both experienced consultants and those early in their careers with an interest in this area.
More information about BEEG can be found on their official website at https://bee-group.org/. Tickets for the inaugural meeting are available at https://learnoscopy.co.uk/courses/J0OrBpmG3z0f7YXKHWhp.
