Many times, the application of IP Technology is sewn into the foundation of fabrics depicted as offices, industrial, retail, hospitality, and so on. No doubt, these are all important and applicable verticals within the technology industry; they're the bread and butter of what keeps us (VARs, integrators, MSPs, distributors, manufacturers, etc) and technology as a whole evolving. But every now and then, we have the opportunity to come across an application where IP technology has made a difference not just in improving our modern, every-day-lives - but actually saving them. ABP Technology has been honored to work with Clarity Technologies, LLC in the efforts of outfitting mobile surgical units for Operation Smile.

Healing Smiles Around the World: Operation Smile's Mission for Children

Operation Smile is an international medical charity that is devoted to providing free surgeries for children and young adults in developing countries who are born with cleft lip, cleft palate or other facial deformities. They've developed expertise in mobilizing volunteer medical teams to conduct surgical missions in resource-poor environments while adhering to the highest standards of care and safety. Operation Smile helps to fill the gap in providing access to safe, well-timed surgeries by partnering with hospitals, governments and ministries of health, training local medical personnel, and donating much-needed supplies and equipment to surgical sites around the world. Founded and based in Virginia, U.S., Operation Smile has extended its global reach to more than 60 countries through its network of credentialed surgeons, pediatricians, doctors, nurses, and student volunteers.

Bruce G. Kreeger, President & CTO of Clarity Technologies Group, LLC stated about Operation Smile, "it's an amazing organization that Clarity is excited and honored to work with. It's heartbreaking what some of these kids have to go through. As if the daily medical complications they deal with isn't enough, some are even ostracized from the community because of their differences and cultural beliefs. It's truly an inspiration to hear some of these kids' before and after stories and work with this foundation."

If you have the chance, I would really suggest checking out their mission and story, this is truly a foundation that pulls at the heart strings and one that delivers on their mission - and if you feel so compelled, donate to the cause! 

Mobile Medical Marvel: Inside Operation Smile's High-Tech Trailers

The project consists of 3 trailers, resembling shipping containers, that are placed in a "U" shape. Each of the trailers are purposed for a different stage of the procedure: Pre-Op, Surgery, and Post-Op. Families are able to be with their loved ones in the pre- and post-op areas, but only medical personnel and patients are granted access to the surgical units due to sterilization and health protocol. The technology (or lackthereof) available in the countries that Operation Smile operates in produced a unique obstacle when looking to plan and implement the solutions for the trailers.

Part of Operation Smile's mission is to deliver safe and effective medical procedures to developing countries where otherwise such technology would rarely be available. In delivering on that mission, everything from patient documentation & medical equipment to global communication efforts is modern and technology-based.  Each of the trailers operate independently to prevent mass-down times but are interoperable with each other so medical personnel can walk the proximity of the perimeter without lag or losing connection. It was a challenge that was willingly accepted to build a full-functioning IP solution - including infrastructure, telephony and surveillance - with little-to-no outside resources from the environment or existing systems.

The Mobile Surgical Unit's technology solutions include:

• complete wired infrastructure with PLANET Managed Switches
• wireless networking with LANCOM
• routers with Sierra Wireless and WatchGuard
• servers with Lenovo
• telephony with 3CX PBX and Yealink cordless DECT phones - enabling units to make global calls
• physical security with MOBOTIX cameras

Depending on the country's networking capabilities and current structure, local internet is either provided by service providers in the region or available through mobile LTE service.