Welcome to the Department of Otorhinolaryngology
The Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the University of the Free State (UFS) delivers specialised, patient-centred care across the full spectrum of ear, nose and throat (ENT) disorders. Combining advanced medical science with surgical excellence, our department is dedicated to restoring vital human functions, such as hearing, balance, speech, breathing, and swallowing, that directly shape quality of life.
Our Comprehensive Services
Otorhinolaryngology is a broad and technically specialised discipline addressing:
- medical and surgical conditions of the ear, nose, and throat,
- neurotology,
- skull-base pathology,
- head and neck surgery,
- audiology
- speech pathology.
Our specialists integrate diagnostic precision with modern operative techniques to manage complex conditions affecting sensory perception, airway function, and communication. From routine ENT care to advanced subspecialty interventions, our department offers a seamless continuum of care and training.
Integrated Community and Specialist Clinics
The department maintains a strong clinical footprint across major training hospitals, delivering accessible, high-quality ENT services:
- Universitas Hospital – Our department renders a general ENT clinic service four days per week.
- Pelonomi Hospital – Our department renders a general weekly ENT clinic service.
- Universitas Hospital Annnex – Combined oncology clinics are held weekly
- Audiology Services at Universitas Hospital – A comprehensive range of diagnostic assessments is offered, including pure tone and speech audiometry, behavioural audiometry, tympanometry, otoacoustic emissions, auditory brainstem response (ABR), and auditory steady-state response (ASSR).
- Neonatal hearing screening is performed in the neonatal wards at Universitas Academic Hospital
These services ensure early detection, accurate diagnosis, and personalised management for patients across the Free State.
Training the Specialists of Tomorrow
Education and training forms the cornerstones of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology. Our department is actively involved in the teaching of both undergraduate and postgraduate students, cultivating clinical competence, surgical precision, and academic excellence. Through structured exposure to a broad spectrum of ENT pathology and cutting-edge technologies, our students and registrars are empowered to deliver world-class care in complex healthcare environments, setting a benchmark for excellence.
Excellence in Every Sense
At the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, we go beyond diagnosing and treating disease; we cultivate excellence in ENT care. Students at every level benefit from comprehensive clinical exposure, hands-on surgical training, and dedicated mentorship within a collaborative, patient-centred environment. Access to modern technologies, strong multidisciplinary partnerships, and active research platforms further empower our students to develop as both clinicians and academics while making a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. Through innovation, specialist training, and integrated care, we advance ENT practices for the communities we serve and help shape the future of the discipline across South Africa and beyond.
If you require any further information on your future as an ENT specialist, please contact the Department of Otorhinolaryngology directly.