A child with cleft palate receives free-of-charge examination at the Huế Central Hospital. — VNA/VNS Photo Mai Anh

THỪA THIÊN-HUẾ — A free-of-charge cleft palate operation programme, with the participation of doctors from Germany, is taking place in the central province of Thừa Thiên-Huế from March 1 to 10, supporting children in need from across the nation.

Coordinated by Interplast Germany’s volunteer surgery team and the Huế Central Hospital, the programme targets those in difficult circumstances with disabilities who cannot afford the surgery.

According to Nguyễn Hồng Lợi, Director of the hospital’s Odonto-Stomatology Centre, participating doctors are conducting patient check-ups.

Up to 70 children are expected to receive operations, Lợi said.

Professor Johannes Hidding, a member of the Interplast team, said he always feels happy whenever he remembers the smiles of children after surgery.

Another member, Professor Peter Schachner, said this is the fifth time he has come to Thừa Thiên-Huế and cooperated with the Odonto-Stomatology Centre. He enjoys working here because of the Vietnamese medical team’s professionalism and enthusiasm.

As part of the programme, the Interplast delegation will transfer advanced techniques in cleft lip and palate surgery and anesthesiology to their peers at the Huế Central Hospital. — VNS