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310
create "priorities" within this list resulted in many cases of less
immediate need being relegated still further. This situation would
seem to conflict with the I.L.E.A. annual figures which show a
relatively small "output" of orthodontic cases. Such an apparent
paradox arises as a result of the registering by the I.L.E.A. of a
"new" case only when an orthodontic appliance has been fitted.
Time consuming orthodontic consultations and investigations
(including impressions for study models) as well as X-rays and
referrals back for observation, judicious extractions, further reviews
necessitated by progressive growth of a child, form no part
of the I.L.E.A's numerical analysis of orthodontic work and this
statistical aberration does scant justice to our orthodontist.
Treatment at the major schools for our mentally and physically
handicapped children during 1971, was again via the mobile
unit from the Dental Department for Children at Guy's Hospital
but, again, service to the less severely handicapped child was
limited by lack of facilities.
As a summary for 1971, it can be said that the urgent need
for increased surgery accommodation remains but that, within its
limited resources, the service given gave grounds for satisfaction.