How Did Army Hospital R&R Achieve a Milestone in Laser Eye Surgery?
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Synopsis
Witness a groundbreaking achievement in military healthcare as the Army Hospital R&R leads the way in advanced laser eye surgery. Discover how they are setting new standards in ophthalmology with robotic technology, ensuring better outcomes for personnel and their families.
Key Takeaways
- AHRR is the first government hospital in India to perform Robotic Custom Laser Cataract Surgery.
- The procedure utilizes the ALLY Adaptive Cataract Treatment System.
- FLACS automates critical steps of cataract surgery for greater accuracy.
- AHRR is also pioneering in minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries.
- The partnership with NIMHANS aims to bolster mental health support for armed forces personnel.
New Delhi, Aug 28 (NationPress) The Army Hospital Research and Referral (AHRR) has marked a significant achievement by becoming the first government facility in India and the second in South Asia to successfully execute Robotic Custom Laser Cataract Surgery utilizing the advanced ALLY Adaptive Cataract Treatment System, according to an official announcement.
This milestone is hailed as a breakthrough in military medical care, symbolizing the Ophthalmology Department’s pioneering venture into robotic, bladeless, and computer-assisted eye surgery with its inaugural Femto-second Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS).
The Defence Ministry confirmed that the procedure was performed by Brigadier S.K. Mishra on a 61-year-old patient.
While traditional surgery remains effective, FLACS signifies a groundbreaking technological leap, as the femtosecond laser automates crucial phases of the operation including corneal incisions, capsulotomy, and cataract fragmentation with micron-level accuracy, stated the official release.
The adoption of this state-of-the-art technology at AHRR emphasizes the Armed Forces’ dedication to providing the most advanced, safe, and effective healthcare for its personnel and their families, the statement added.
FLACS guarantees both precision and optimal outcomes, which are essential in military medicine, according to the statement.
The facility also aims to provide pioneering eye care services, enhancing the hospital's capability in addressing a wide array of ocular conditions.
Earlier this week, the Department of Ophthalmology at AHRR also performed a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery with a 3D microscope—another first and unique feat for the Armed Forces.
“The three-dimensional visualization system is highly beneficial for various eye surgeries, including treatments for squint, cataract, corneal issues, glaucoma, and retinal conditions,” as per a Ministry of Defence statement.
“This system employs specialized 3D polarization glasses and a 55-inch 4K ultra-HD display,” it continued.
Potential benefits include significantly reduced surgical time and complication rates compared to traditional microscopes, lower power requirements for the endoilluminator, decreased photo-toxicity, enhanced usability in challenging situations, and high satisfaction ratings from both surgeons and nurses.
Under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, and Director General Armed Forces Medical Services Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, the Department of Ophthalmology at AHRR is committed to upholding its legacy of clinical excellence and innovation in eye care, according to the statement.
Earlier this year, the Armed Forces Medical Services entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) aimed at enhancing the mental well-being of Defence personnel.
This MoU seeks to promote collaborative research and training to improve mental health support and care for armed forces members.
The partnership between AFMS and NIMHANS focuses on bolstering mental health services and providing specialized training for medical staff.
Key objectives of the MoU include joint research, faculty exchanges, and academic initiatives. NIMHANS will leverage its expertise in neuropsychiatry to assist in research on advanced psychiatric care and support for military personnel, addressing prevalent issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
It also aims to create innovative programs to tackle the mental health challenges faced by soldiers, sailors, airmen, and their families, as stated by the Ministry.
Point of View
I firmly believe that advancements in military healthcare, such as those showcased by the Army Hospital R&R, reflect a commitment to excellence and innovation. The integration of robotic surgery techniques is not only a testament to our capabilities but also a significant step forward in providing top-tier medical services to those who serve our nation.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of FLACS?
FLACS, or Femto-second Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery, represents a major technological advancement in eye surgery, offering higher precision and improved outcomes compared to traditional methods.
Who performed the first FLACS at AHRR?
The first FLACS at AHRR was conducted by Brigadier S.K. Mishra on a 61-year-old patient.
What is the purpose of the MoU with NIMHANS?
The MoU aims to enhance mental health support and care for Defence personnel through collaborative research and training.
What are the advantages of using a 3D microscope for eye surgery?
Using a 3D microscope significantly reduces surgical time and complication rates while improving visualization and ease of use in complex cases.
How does AHRR plan to improve eye care services?
AHRR aims to enhance its eye care services by adopting advanced technologies like FLACS and 3D visualization systems.
