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Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Smile train: changing the world one smile at a time
Eric H Hubli1, M Samuel Noordhoff
1Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA. Eric.Hubu@cookchildrens.org
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|January 5, 2012
Summary
Smile Train provides cleft repair surgery and comprehensive care to children globally. Their sustainable "teach-a-man-to-fish" model empowers local medical professionals to deliver essential services, improving outcomes for children with clefts.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Global health initiatives
- Surgical interventions
Background:
- Cleft lip and palate conditions affect numerous children worldwide.
- Lack of access to specialized medical care exacerbates the impact of clefts.
- Timely and comprehensive treatment is crucial for affected children's well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe Smile Train's model for delivering cleft care.
- To highlight the organization's commitment to sustainable, local solutions.
- To emphasize the goal of providing comprehensive cleft treatment to all children.
Main Methods:
- Implementing a "teach-a-man-to-fish" strategy.
- Providing free education and training to local medical professionals.
- Offering financial support and equipment for cleft treatment.
Main Results:
- Expansion of global reach in cleft care delivery.
- Enhancement of services through innovative approaches.
- Empowerment of local healthcare systems to provide quality cleft care.
Conclusions:
- Smile Train's model facilitates sustainable, high-quality cleft care.
- The organization's approach ensures more children receive life-changing treatment.
- The ultimate aim is to enable every child with a cleft to live a productive life.
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