Annual symposium

Dr. Matthew Old is chair of the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Washington and holds the Allison T. Wanamaker Endowed Chair. An accomplished surgeon, educator, and leader, Dr. Old specializes in head and neck oncologic and reconstructive surgery.

Before joining UW, Dr. Old served as the David E. and Carole Schuller Chair and Professor of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. At Ohio State, he directed one of the nation's largest head and neck surgery programs, overseeing multidisciplinary teams and advancing complex oncologic surgery, microvascular reconstruction, and skull base procedures.

A recognized innovator in reconstructive microsurgery, Dr. Old founded the International Head and Neck Microvascular Fellow Bootcamp and developed collaborative initiatives to enhance surgical training and multidisciplinary care. His mentorship has shaped the careers of numerous residents and fellows nationwide.

Dr. Old's research focuses on head and neck cancer biology, immunotherapy, and precision medicine. He has published more than 150 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals, including landmark studies on adenoid cystic carcinoma, circulating tumor DNA and HPV-associated cancers. He has held national leadership roles with the American Head and Neck Society and serves as an examiner for the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.

Honored for excellence in patient care and education, Dr. Old is a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and recipient of multiple teaching and clinical awards. He is also a strong advocate for physician wellness and leadership development.

A native of Texas, Dr. Old earned his BA in Human Biology from Stanford University and his MD from the University of Texas at Houston. He completed residency at the University of Michigan and fellowship training in Microvascular Reconstruction and Skull Base Surgery at Vanderbilt University.