Local capacity to treat Cleft Lip and Palate patients in Laos has been realised following over 10 years of training from Interplast. In February 2009, the Mahosot Hospital Cleft Team from Vientiane delivered their second outreach program in Xayabouly in the province of Sayabouly. The team were supported by Interplast nurse, Kerrie Westwood who has overseen the development of the local team since their training first began. 24 patients received treatment for cleft lip and palate deformities and the Mahosot team also provided training to the local hospital staff – a true reflection that the capability of the local team to deliver services has been established.
Interplast training programs are now focusing on the management of burns and the second burns training program was delivered at Mahosot Hospital in Vientiane during February 2009. Working alongside the local staff in the Plastic Surgery Unit, the Interplast team operated on 53 patients and training was provided to the local surgeons, anaesthetists and nurses. A surgeon and anaesthetist were also funded to undertake a 10 week training attachment at Princess Margaret Hospital in Perth, further strengthening capacity of the local team to treat burns patients.
