Early Times Report
JAMMU, May 15: The Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS Jammu has achieved a remarkable milestone by successfully restoring vision in a middle-aged patient who presented to the Eye OPD with severe ocular trauma sustained while gardening. The patient was cutting grass with an iron sickle when a small fragment of the sickle struck his eye. He was immediately rushed to AIIMS Jammu. On clinical examination, the patient was found to have corneal perforation and traumatic cataract, and an intraocular foreign body (IOFB) was suspected. Diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound B-scan and CT scan, confirmed the presence of a metallic foreign body measuring approximately 5 mm lodged within the posterior segment of the eye.
A highly complex microsurgical procedure involving Pars Plana Lensectomy, Vitrectomy, and removal of the iron foreign body was successfully performed by Dr. Ridham Nanda, Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology along with the team. The procedure was supported by Senior Residents Dr. Asma Jabeen and Dr. Shefali Verma, who carried out detailed pre-surgical evaluation and coordinated perioperative care.
Dr. Nanda highlighted that removing the metallic foreign body without injuring the retina posed a significant challenge due to its sharp edges; however, the surgery was meticulously performed along with endolaser photocoagulation to reinforce weak retinal areas. Postoperatively, the patient is recovering well with significant visual improvement.
Dr. Bhavani Raina, Additional Professor & Officiating Head of the Department of Ophthalmology, provided expert guidance and oversight throughout the case, commending the team for their precision and commitment to patient safety. She emphasized that the department is committed to providing superspecialty ophthalmic services in the region.
Prof. (Dr.) D. N. Sharma, Executive Director & CEO, congratulated the department for performing such advanced sight-saving procedures at AIIMS Jammu, noting that "these complex surgeries reflect the growing clinical and surgical excellence of the institute and will help reduce patient referrals outside the Union Territory while building confidence in tertiary eye care services within the region." |
