Cleft surgery in India - Past, present and future and a model for global knowledge transfer
Srinivas Gosla Reddy1, Avani Pandey1, Adity Bansal2
1GSR Institute of Cranio-Maxillofacial and Facial Plastic Surgery, Vinay Nagar Colony, I S Sadan, Saidabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500059, India.
Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research
|August 19, 2021
Summary
GSR Institute of Craniomaxillofacial and Facial Plastic Surgery (GSRIFCS) shares its philosophy for managing craniofacial and cleft patients. This high-volume center highlights advancements in cleft care in India and its model for low- and middle-income countries.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Cleft care in India has evolved significantly over 70 years, overcoming historical barriers like limited access, awareness, and social stigma.
- Past challenges in cleft treatment included funding scarcity, inadequate training, and a lack of sustainable skilled resources.
- Optimal cleft surgery outcomes necessitate sophisticated infrastructure, specialized personnel, and comprehensive multidisciplinary teams.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the operational philosophy and management approach of the GSR Institute of Craniomaxillofacial and Facial Plastic Surgery (GSRIFCS) for craniofacial and cleft patients.
- To elaborate on the vision, mission, and strategic plan for establishing GSRIFCS as a leading cleft care center.
- To propose the GSRIFCS model as a blueprint for future cleft care initiatives in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Main Methods:
- The article outlines the establishment and operational framework of a high-volume cleft center (GSRIFCS).
- It details the multidisciplinary team approach essential for comprehensive patient management.
- The narrative reviews historical advancements and current challenges in cleft surgery within the Indian context.
Main Results:
- GSRIFCS has successfully performed over 30,000 cleft surgeries, demonstrating a high-volume, state-of-the-art approach.
- Significant improvements in healthcare facilities, research, and knowledge transfer have been observed in cleft care in India.
- The institute's model addresses the need for accessible, affordable, and comprehensive care, mitigating social stigma.
Conclusions:
- The GSR Institute's model emphasizes a multidisciplinary team, advanced infrastructure, and specialized care for optimal craniofacial and cleft patient outcomes.
- The center's success in managing a high volume of cases offers valuable insights for improving cleft care globally.
- The GSRIFCS model provides a potential framework for enhancing cleft treatment accessibility and quality in LMICs.
