Handwara, Nov 13: Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara has introduced advanced phacoemulsification cataract surgery at its Department of Ophthalmology, expanding access to specialised eye-care services in North Kashmir.
Dr Aamina Shah, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at GMC Handwara, told Greater Kashmir that the initiative is part of the institution’s efforts to strengthen its surgical capabilities and provide modern treatment facilities closer to patients.
She said the facility was made possible through a collective effort to improve healthcare services for the general public.
“The new facility is expected to benefit patients from Kupwara district and adjoining areas, who previously had to travel to distant tertiary healthcare institutions to access advanced cataract surgery,” she said.
Explaining the procedure, DrAamina said phacoemulsification is an advanced technique widely regarded as the gold standard in modern cataract treatment.
“It involves using ultrasonic energy to break down and remove the clouded lens through a small incision, followed by implantation of an artificial intraocular lens. The technique generally involves smaller incisions, less surgical trauma and faster visual recovery compared to conventional cataract surgery,” she said.
The introduction of the procedure is expected to improve access to specialised ophthalmic care for people in peripheral and underserved areas of North Kashmir, reducing the need to travel to distant hospitals for treatment.
Locals have welcomed the development and expressed hope that GMC Handwara would introduce more advanced treatment technologies and strengthen its specialised patient-care services.
