THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, January 22: The Eye Department of Medinirai Medical College and Hospital (MMCH), Daltonganj, created history by successfully performing Phaco cataract surgeries for the first time at the institution. Four patients, all women, underwent the advanced cataract procedure on Wednesday using the Phaco emulsification instrument.
Team Effort Behind the Success
Dr Rakesh Kumar, Associate Professor and Head of the Eye Department, said the achievement was the result of collective teamwork.
“It is a team effort. From senior resident Dr Shilpa to ophthalmic officer Amrender Kumar and assisting staff, everyone played a key role in successfully conducting four Phaco surgeries. Earlier, cataract surgeries here were done using the traditional method,” he said.
Over 300 Cataract Surgeries Completed
Dr Rakesh said the department has already completed over 300 cataract surgeries, meeting the target set by the Health Department.
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“Last month alone, we performed 60 cataract surgeries, and the number continues to grow every day,” he added.
Principal Dr P. N. Mahto, Medical Superintendent Dr Ajay Kumar, and Civil Surgeon Dr Anil Kumar Srivastava congratulated the eye department, calling the introduction of Phaco surgery a milestone in eye care and treatment at MMCH.
Heavy Patient Footfall in Eye OPD
Speaking about patient inflow, Dr Rakesh said the eye OPD receives around 60 patients daily, most of whom present with refractive errors and cataract-related problems.
Highlighting manpower constraints, he said the department functions with two doctors and one senior resident, supported by a small team of ophthalmic officers and assistants.
“Despite limited resources, we work as a dedicated team,” he said.
Special Care for Premature Babies
Dr Rakesh also said the department conducts screening for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in babies born prematurely, those with low birth weight, oxygen exposure, or NICU admission.
“We take utmost care of such cases,” he added.
Cataract lenses are provided free of cost under the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment, benefiting patients significantly.
Earlier, patients had to undergo 8–10 tests before cataract surgery. Now, only three tests—blood sugar, blood pressure, and HIV—are required, easing both financial and mental stress on patients.
Advanced Eye Care Services Expanding
The department recently diagnosed an eye cancer case, indicating improved diagnostic capabilities. Cases of blocked tear ducts are also frequently treated.
Dr Rakesh advised parents not to panic but also not to ignore blocked tear duct conditions in children.
Medical Superintendent Dr Ajay Kumar requested the Civil Surgeon to ensure that cataract cases fit for surgery from peripheral government health facilities are referred to MMCH.
