Jack M. Kartush MD

Born on May 18, 1952, Dr. Kartush devoted his life to healing, innovation, and education. A native of Michigan, he earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan in 1978 and went on to complete his residency in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, becoming board-certified in 1984. His professional legacy is most deeply tied to the Michigan Ear Institute (MEI) in Farmington Hills, which he co-founded and where he spent the majority of his distinguished career.

Dr. Kartush was internationally recognized as a leader in intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring. His innovations—most notably the Facial Nerve Integrity Monitor (NIM) and the Kartush Stimulating Dissector—transformed how surgeons protect delicate cranial nerves during surgery. As the founding president of the American Society of Neurophysiological Monitoring (ASNM), he helped establish foundational safety and quality standards for the field. He also helped launch MEI’s facial nerve monitoring program, neurotology fellowship, and temporal bone laboratory, ensuring his commitment to surgical excellence would influence generations of physicians.

He authored more than 200 scientific publications and held numerous patents, but perhaps his most enduring contributions were the relationships he built—with patients, students, and colleagues. Known for his wit, deep compassion, and relentless curiosity, Dr. Kartush was as gifted a communicator as he was a clinician.

In the operating room, he championed patient safety well before it became standard practice—instituting protocols such as preoperative site marking and surgical checklists years ahead of national guidelines. His work saved countless lives and protected the quality of life for thousands more.

After retiring from clinical practice in 2012 due to health challenges, Dr. Kartush remained an active educator and advocate. He continued to publish, speak, and mentor, determined to share his wisdom with others even as his own health declined.

In addition to medicine, Dr. Kartush’s lifelong avocation has been music. His bands have performed on TV at Ford Field and Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan. He wrote the soundtrack for Fox TV’s 10 O’Clock News in Lexington, KY, and composed the first fully synthesized version of the University of Michigan’s, “Hail to The Victor’s” fight song.

Dr. Kartush is survived by his wife of 41 years Christine Kartush (nee Ostrowski), daughters Alison Kartush, MD (Varun Shetty, MD) and Julia Kartush (Jon Brock), grandchildren Otto, Noa, Rory and Aria, his brother Martin Kartush, DDS and family, many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and a grateful professional community. He leaves behind not only a profound medical legacy but also a model of what it means to live a life of purpose, humility, and service.

“What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.” — Albert Pike