PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
With the onset of winter, the Government Doon Medical College (GDMC) Hospital has reported an average of 40 per cent increase in the number of eye surgeries compared to other days. Senior eye specialist at the hospital Dr Sushil Ojha informed that such a rise in eye surgeries occurs annually during the winter season. Similarly, this year also, the ophthalmology department at GDMC Hospital has witnessed a rise in cases particularly during this time with the Char Dham Yatra also about to end. Out of the Char Dham, only Badrinath is presently open to the public and is slated to close on November 25. During the Yatra, many residents of Garhwal are typically busy with employment and tend to avoid travelling. Once the Yatra concludes or is about to conclude for the winter, the residents begin to visit the hospital for eye surgeries.
He said that another reason for the surge in surgeries is that many people believe that winter is a suitable time for eye procedures, as they consider it healthier and less prone to infections. As a result, the number of surgeries performed has increased significantly. He informed that on normal days, at the hospital, they perform seven to eight surgeries, but during this period, the number has risen to 14 to 15 surgeries per day. GDMC Hospital has observed a 40 per cent increase in eye surgeries currently. This surge has not impacted the outpatient department (OPD) adversely, as the ophthalmology team comprises 16 doctors, with eight attending to the operation theater (OT) and the other eight managing the OPD.
Ojha added that cataract surgeries remain the most common procedure performed during this time. Additionally, the majority of patients undergoing eye surgeries are elderly individuals. Post-surgery, patients are advised to take precautions, such as avoiding dust and others.
He also added that with advancements in technology, eye surgeries are now feasible year-round.
