63 Years of History, Science, and Vocation: Acta of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery.

Abstract

Celebrating the 63 years of Acta de Otorrinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery is an opportunity to look back with pride on a journey that has accompanied the scientific, academic, and professional evolution of our specialty. Its history dates back to 1962, the year its first edition was released under the name Acta Otorrino-Laringológica de Colombia; it was in August of that same year that the first official issue was published, becoming the scientific journal of what was then known as the Colombian Society of Otolaryngology and Broncho-Esophagology.

That inaugural volume already reflected remarkable scientific maturity. Its pages addressed topics that remain fundamental to otolaryngological practice today: the vascular, toxic, and viral origins of sudden hearing loss; the surgical treatment of simple tympanic membrane perforations; chronic bacterial sinusitis; fistulas of Stensen’s salivary duct; and disorders of voice mutation. These works were authored by prominent figures of the time such as Edgar Chiossone, Gerardo Saffon, Luis Gómez Cadena, and Horacio Muñoz Suescún—true pioneers who laid a solid foundation for the construction of knowledge in our field.

Likewise, the early sections of notes and commentaries featured the valuable contributions of Drs. Jorge García, Carlos Cleves, Alfonso Riaño, Elpidio Posada, and Hernán Reina, who provided essential reflections and critical insights that enriched the academic dialogue of this emerging publication.

Since then, the journal has undergone a profound transformation. We have incorporated evidence-based clinical guidelines, opened our pages to international articles, and received official translations from world-renowned scientific societies, such as the Bárány Society. This has strengthened our global character and our ability to contribute content of universal relevance to the region.

Today, six decades later, we continue to look ahead with the same determination that inspired our founders. The challenge of international indexation, the consolidation of robust editorial processes, the ongoing pursuit of scientific excellence, and the aspiration to position our journal as a highly relevant reference in Latin America guide our present and our future.

To all those who have written, reviewed, edited, and supported this publication over the past 63 years, we extend our deepest gratitude. Acta de Otorrinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery continues to grow because it has been, is, and will remain the collective product of a community committed to scientific rigor, medical education, and the health of our patients.

We invite you to continue building, together, the next chapters of this story.