gms | German Medical Science

78th Annual Meeting of the German Society of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery

German Society of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery

16.05. - 20.05.2007, Munich

Otorhinolaryngology in Competitive Athletes

Meeting Abstract

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German Society of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. 78th Annual Meeting of the German Society of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. Munich, 16.-20.05.2007. Düsseldorf, Köln: German Medical Science; 2007. Doc07hno029

The electronic version of this article is the complete one and can be found online at: http://www.egms.de/en/meetings/hno2007/07hno029.shtml

Published: August 8, 2007

© 2007 Kuropkat et al.
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Outline

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Introduction: Aspects of otorhinolaryngology in the treatment of competitive athletes are described in order to assure an optimal therapy for elite athletes in terms of disease prevention and getting back to competition as soon as possible.

Method: Typical injuries and medical conditions of the head and neck in general and in selected disciplines (judo, boxing, swimming, ice hockey) are demonstrated. Also, the altered immune system in elite athletes, with higher incidence of upper respiratory tract infections is discussed. Another issue will be the optimal therapeutic options for diseases of the head and neck, with special consideration of the national and international anti-doping code.

Results: In Lower Saxony 510 competitive athletes and 3200 junior competitive athletes are registered. Injuries to the head and neck as well as inflammatory diseases of the head and neck area are common among these athletes, often associated with long lasting reduction of the athlete’s performance.

Conclusion: Good knowledge of elite athlete’s immune system, the sport-specific particularities as well as the anti-doping regularities is helpful for otorhinolaryngologists to find the optimal treatment for competitive athletes.