The Department of Otolaryngology was founded on July 1, 1959, by Dr. José Picó at the Municipal District Hospital of San Juan, Puerto Rico, marking a pivotal moment in the development of the field on the island. In 1970, the program relocated to the University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, where Dr. Picó continued as Chair until his retirement in 1974.
Following his tenure, Dr. Antonio Rullán briefly served as Chair until 1978, when Dr. Juan Trinidad Pinedo assumed leadership, guiding the department for three decades. Upon Dr. Trinidad’s retirement in 2008, Dr. Carlos González Aquino took on the role of Chair, a position he holds to this day.
Over the years, our leadership has continuously expanded clinical services, strengthened faculty recruitment, and advanced research opportunities—all while upholding the highest accreditation standards. Since its inception, the department has remained committed to excellence in patient care, education, and innovation.