Dr. Douglas D. Backous, M.D. FACS

Expert Publications

• Compressed electrode arrays in cases of obliterative labyrinthitis ossificans.
• Vestibular assessment and ear selection for cochlear implantation: the role of bedside testing.
• Initial results of patients implanted in the MED-EL Combi 40+ investigational trial at Virginia Mason Medical Center.
• Valsalva-induced scalp flap elevation after cochlear implantation: etiology and treatment.
• The expanding role of the otolaryngologist in managing infants and children with hearing loss.
• Evaluation of vestibular function in young children.
• Metastasis to the petrous apex: a report of an uncommon case.
• Phase 1 clinical trial results of the Envoy System: a totally implantable middle ear device for sensorineural hearing loss.
• Basic principles of cerebrospinal fluid metabolism and intracranial pressure homeostasis.
• Counseling patients on surgical options for treating acoustic neuroma.
• Radiology quiz case 1. Postinflammatory fibrosis of the EAC (medial canal fibrosis).
• Diagnosis and management of aggressive, acquired cholesteatoma with skull base and calvarial involvement: a report of 3 cases.
• Implantable middle ear hearing devices: current state of technology and market challenges.
• Intracranial pressure concerns in lateral skull base surgery.
• Guiding patients through the choices for treating vestibular schwannomas: balancing options and ensuring informed consent.

Media Releases

Get to know Otolaryngologist Dr. Douglas D. Backous, who serves patients in Puyallup, Washington.

A devoted otolaryngologist, Dr. Backous stands at the forefront of neurotology, boasting over two decades of expertise in treating a diverse array of ear and skull base conditions. As a board-certified neurotologist, he has dedicated his career to providing cutting-edge treatments for patients grappling with hearing loss, deafness, chronic ear infections, cholesteatoma, acoustic neuromas, and facial nerve disorders. Central to his professional mission is ensuring equitable access to care for patients seeking hearing solutions, including cochlear implants, brainstem implants, Baha, and other hearing devices. 

An alumnus of the University of Washington School of Medicine, he completed his residency in Otolaryngology at Baylor College of Medicine before undertaking a fellowship in Neurotology at Johns Hopkins University. 

As a testament of his continued education, the doctor is board-certified in otolaryngology and neurotology by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, which is a non-profit corporation that has set the mission of ensuring professional standards with certificates and memberships and has offered training in the fields of head neck surgery to professionals since 1924.

Holding membership status, Dr. Backous serves as the President of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, and he is a member of esteemed societies such as the American Neurotology Society and the American Otological Society. Furthermore, his status as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons underscores his exemplary surgical skills and adherence to the highest standards of surgical practice.

His leadership extends beyond the operating room, as evidenced by his role on the Proliance Surgeons Board of Directors and his position as the program director for the Seattle Advanced Otology Fellowship at Puget Sound ENT. His dedication to education and mentorship underscores his commitment to advancing the field of neurotology and ensuring the next generation of specialists is equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide exceptional patient care.

Otolaryngology is the oldest medical specialty in the United States. Otolaryngologists, also known as ear, nose, and throat doctors, specialize in disorders of the head and neck, ranging from hearing loss to cancer.

As a testament to his success, Dr. Backous’s contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed, with accolades such as the Distinguished Service Award from the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery in 2009, along with being recognized as a Top Doctor by Seattle Magazine and Seattle Metropolitan Magazine. Furthermore, his peers have acknowledged his exceptional skill and dedication by naming him among America’s Best Doctors in 2024.

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