title: Establishing cleft malformation surgery in developing nations: a model for the new millennium.
abstract: This three-stage model outlines a safe and effective method for achieving a local cleft board in a developing region. Maintaining local culture and guaranteeing patient safety are paramount concerns. Success is rooted in the constant assessment and recognition of negative forces, including misdirection and stagnation. The key factors are the identification of an interested local host and a source of funding as the site evolves toward independence. As of June 30, 2000, 501 cases had been performed independently and free of charge by the host healthcare provider in Nepal. There had been no major morbidities or mortalities.
authors.affiliation: Interplast, Inc., Mountain View, California 94041-1506, USA. risz@ix.netcom.com
authors.forename: R I
authors.initials: RI
authors.lastname: Zbar
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Rai
authors.forename: D L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Dingman
mesh_terms: D002971:Cleft Lip / Q000601:surgery*; D002972:Cleft Palate / Q000601:surgery*; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D003906:Developing Countries; D006801:Humans; D007393:International Educational Exchange; D008493:Medical Missions; D009390:Nepal; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010686:Philosophy, Medical