On behalf of the International Cleft Lip & Palate Foundation, it is my pleasure to invite you to participate in the 1^st Inter national Cleft Lip & Palate Workshop, to be held in Chennai from 3^rd–6^th December 2005. The workshop would provide an excellent platform for enhancement of skills of the surgeons in the management of patients with dentofacial & craniofacial abnormalities emphasis on Cleft lip & palate.

       There will be eminent surgeons, Orthodontist, Genetists, Speech Therapist from around the world & other key players, providing a cutting edge continuing education in Craniofacial Surgery. There will be live surgical demonstrations of state of the art procedures by the pioneers in Craniofacial reconstruction & Distraction Osteogenesis. In addition, there will be a plenary of exciting scientific session dealing with genetics prevention,& management of Dentofacial disturbances & some controversies, to encapsulate the vision of Cleft management in the 21^st century.

       The venue, Chennai has a unique attraction of an Asian city that along with its western influences makes you find it stimulating and fascinating.

       We welcome you to the workshop to exchange ideas with world renowned opinion leaders and enjoy the multicultural heritage of the city.  Hope you will find the participation both educational and enjoyable.

Prof. Dr. S. M. Balaji