Delivering the best treatment and care
A state-of-the-art facial surgery and orthodontics unit is to open at the RUH next year at a cost of £2.7million, allowing the unit’s existing work to move to lighter and brighter surroundings. The new unit will continue to bridge the gap between dentistry and medicine and provide both diagnosis and treatment for a range of conditions, including facial skin cancer, traumatic facial injuries and disease of the jaw and mouth. The department is unique compared with other district general hospitals as it offers specialist paediatric dentistry and orthodontics assessments on the same day, giving extra support and care to children and their families. But funds need to be raised to support its work, which helps around 5,600 people each year. “The RUH is relocating the facial surgery and orthodontics unit to make way for the new Cancer Centre, which is due for completion in 2021,” said Brian Gubb, interim director of estates and facilities at the RUH. “This move is an opportunity for the RUH to create a new improved facility which will provide a centre of excellence for conditions of the head and neck, including cancer, in a new purpose designed environment. “Staff will be able to work closely with their colleagues in the pioneering new Cancer Centre and its innovative well-being information and support hub to deliver the best treatment and care possible to our patients, their families and staff. “The relocation of the department will ensure that the maxillofacial (head and neck) surgeons can work seamlessly alongside specialists in other fields – such as ear, nose and throat surgeons, clinical oncologists, restorative dentists, and radiologists.” The Chronicle is supporting the Forever Friends 20th anniversary appeal, which includes raising £200,000 to help the new unit. To find out more or donate visit foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk.