RMLIMS gifts patients retinal boon

Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS), Lucknow, has strengthened its eye care services with the launch of an advanced retinal laser unit equipped with pattern-scanning laser technology. The facility was inaugurated by institute director Prof. C.M. Singh during a conference-cum-workshop on diabetic retinopathy.

Organised by the Department of Ophthalmology, the event was themed “From OCTA to Laser in Diabetic Retinopathy: Precision Diagnosis, Precision Treatment.” The new facility is expected to improve the treatment of diabetic retinopathy and other retinal vascular disorders.

Unlike conventional retinal laser systems that generally deliver one laser spot at a time, pattern-scanning technology enables multiple laser spots to be delivered simultaneously in predefined patterns. This can reduce treatment time, improve precision and make procedures more convenient for patients.

Another key highlight was the inauguration of an Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) facility. This advanced, non-invasive imaging technique enables doctors to examine blood flow in the tiny vessels of the retina and choroid without injecting dye into a vein. The facility is expected to strengthen the department’s ability to diagnose and manage diabetic retinopathy and other retinal diseases.

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to permanent vision loss if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Regular eye examinations, early detection and timely intervention are essential to prevent avoidable blindness.

Prof. Singh emphasised the importance of modern technology and advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities in improving eye care. He said the new pattern-scanning retinal laser system would particularly benefit patients requiring specialised retinal treatment by providing access to modern and affordable care. He also appreciated the ophthalmology department’s efforts to enhance patient services.

Chief Medical Superintendent Prof. Vikram Singh highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment in preventing blindness caused by diabetic retinopathy. Dean Prof. Rajan Bhatnagar and Medical Superintendent Prof. Arvind Kumar Singh also appreciated the initiative, stressing the role of advanced medical technology in strengthening patient care.

The workshop aimed to update ophthalmologists on the latest retinal imaging techniques, particularly OCTA, and modern laser treatment approaches for diabetic retinopathy.

The programme was organised under the leadership of Prof. Lakshmi Singh, organising chairperson, and Dr Alok Ranjan, organising secretary. Experts from several medical institutions participated, including Dr Vikas Kanojia of SGPGI, Lucknow; Dr R.N. Kushwaha of Government Medical College, Orai; Dr R.C. Gupta of LLRM Medical College, Meerut; Dr Parvez Khan of GSVM Medical College, Kanpur; and Dr Pragati Garg of AIIMS Rae Bareli.