Pro bono cleft palate correction
PARKTOWN - For the past 12 years, Prof. Laurence Chait and his multi-disciplinary team have treated patients with cleft lip and palate deformities on a pro bono basis.
With the support of the Netcare Foundation an estimated 360 individuals have received reconstructive surgery and facilitated support post surgery.
Among the programme’s recent beneficiaries was 19-year-old Wits chemistry student Vhutshilo Mudumela, who despite her impediment managed to achieve six distinctions upon graduating from matric.
In terms of congenital birth defects cleft lip and palate deformities are not considered rare, and occur in an approximate one out of 10 births.
Usually reconstructive surgery is done in early childhood, and when treated correctly the patient should go on to have a normal life, said Chait.
However, not everyone is fortunate in their circumstances. In certain communities there is social stigma and shame associated with people born with such a facial birth defect. Chait has treated young patients who were hidden by their families.
Over the years Chait and his team have received patients from all demographic groups from all over the country, and from other parts of Africa. These were individuals who were either not covered by medical aid and whose families were unable to bear the financial burden.
The foundation is able to finance 18 to 24 surgeries per year, though some patients depending on their condition, may need more than one surgery. Support after corrective surgery is equally important and the team includes speech therapist Pauline Ramushu who assesses the patients ability to pronounce certain sounds, and works with them continuously to improve upon their speaking ability.
Details: Netcare Park Lane Hospital,Professor Chait’s office, 011 484 3703.
