JAMMU: All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jammu achieved a significant milestone after the Department of Ophthalmology successfully restored vision in a middle-aged patient who suffered severe ocular trauma while gardening.
According to officials, 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 for treatment.
On clinical examination, doctors found that the patient had sustained corneal perforation and traumatic cataract, while an intraocular foreign body was suspected. Diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound B-scan and CT scan, confirmed the presence of a metallic foreign body measuring nearly 5 mm lodged in 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 medical team.
The procedure was supported by Senior Residents Dr. Asma Jabeen and Dr. Shefali Verma, who conducted detailed pre-surgical evaluation and coordinated perioperative care.
Dr. Ridham Nanda said that removing the metallic foreign body without damaging the retina was a major challenge because of its sharp edges. However, the surgery was meticulously performed along with endolaser photocoagulation to strengthen weak retinal areas. The patient is now recovering well with significant improvement in vision.
Dr. Bhavani Raina, Additional Professor and Officiating Head of the Department of Ophthalmology, supervised and guided the case throughout the treatment process and appreciated the team for their precision and commitment to patient safety. She said the department remains committed to providing superspecialty ophthalmic services in the region.
Prof. Dr. D. N. Sharma, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, congratulated the department for performing the advanced sight-saving procedure at the institute.
“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,” Prof. Dr. D. N. Sharma said.
