With timely detection and appropriate medical intervention, vision can be effectively restored.

K K Eye Institute (KKEI), Pune’s leading super-speciality eye hospital, is organising a Free Cataract Screening Week from May 3 to 8, 2026, at its main hospital in Koregaon Park, Pune.

Anyone experiencing changes in their vision is encouraged to come in for a professional evaluation by KKEI’s ophthalmology team.

Attending patients will receive:

• Comprehensive cataract evaluation
• Clinical assessment using advanced diagnostic technology
• Clear guidance on treatment

With over 20 years of legacy and more than 2 lakh successful surgeries, K K Eye Institute is one of Pune’s most experienced centres for cataract care. The institute is guided by the principle of #NoCompromise on clinical excellence and compassionate care.

The institute has extensive expertise in cataract care, with experienced eye surgeons, advanced phacoemulsification technology, and the latest intraocular lenses (IOLs), which significantly improve vision. Patients benefit from personalised counselling, transparent pricing, and an ethical approach to medicine that always puts the patient’s interest first.

Ms Renu Wadhwa, CEO, K K Eye Institute, said: “Cataract is completely treatable, but many people delay evaluation due to lack of awareness or hesitation. Through this screening week, we want to encourage early check-ups and help patients make informed decisions about their eye health. Our philosophy of #NoCompromise is inspired by our spiritual guide and Guru, Dada Vaswani. It means everyone at KKEI, from our surgeons to our support staff, is always guided by the principle: What is in the best interest of the patient? And we do exactly that.”

Appointments are limited. Early booking is advised.

To book: 9168013322 Address: K K Eye Institute, Lane No. 1, Koregaon Park, Pune Website: kkeyeinstitute.org

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As part of the camp, Shanti Clinic will offer an all-inclusive cataract surgery package at ₹9,999. The package is designed to provide transparent, accessible, and high-quality care to a wider group of patients. The surgery is performed by experienced surgeons, using advanced equipment and high-quality intraocular lenses (IOLs).

Individuals experiencing symptoms such as blurred vision, glare, or difficulty in daily activities are encouraged to visit during the camp period for screening and guidance on treatment options.

Shanti Clinic is a diagnostic and healthcare centre operated by the Sadhu Vaswani Mission. The clinic offers consultations, diagnostic services, and an in-house optical shop, Bright Eyes.

For registrations, please contact: Dr Pooja Patel, Counsellor on 9168013322.

Address: Shanti Clinic 9, Sadhu Vaswani Rd, opposite Sadhu Vaswani Mission, Agarkar Nagar, Pune 411001.

Clinic timings: 9.30 am to 6.30 pm.

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PUNE: The cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques for vision correction invented by Pune-based eye surgeon Dr. Jeevan Ladi are transforming the field of laser vision. 

Explaining a recent case, Dr. Jeevan Ladi, Founder of Dada Eye Laser Institute said that a 30-year-old male from Sudan came to his clinic in the first week of January 2025. He was visibly dejected as all of the experts that he had met outside India told him not to go for laser vision correction as his cornea was thin.  He had high myopia with a power of -7 in the right eye and -6 in the left eye, and the thickness of his Cornea, on which the Laser was done, was less.

Dr. Ladi added that the challenge in thin cornea is that there isn’t enough tissue to adequately correct refractive errors. However, the technique of Variable Optic Zone (VOZ) works by utilizing the concept of minimal tissue consumption depending on the size of the pupil. With the use of modern imaging technology, which uses a special type of laser light for accuracy, the size of the pupil is measured under different lighting conditions. This data is then utilized to decide the amount of tissue in the cornea that needs to be treated by Laser. It uses special software to do the necessary calculations to treat tissue, depending on the size of the pupil, to avoid photic phenomena such as glare and halos. This innovation has revolutionized the way we treat vision correction as it is tailored to each individual’s needs. The technique is suitable for people going for vision correction in the age group 18-60 years to get rid of glasses.

The procedure was performed on the Sudanese male on 4th January 2025. He regained his natural vision quickly and was very happy with the result. He went back to Sudan on 8th January 2025.

Dr. Ladi added that the other technique he uses is SAFE (Shearing Applied Force Extraction). This is a technique used in modern LASIK lasers such as Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) to help minimize the amount of inflammation to the cornea and to aid in rapid healing and visual recovery. This method also eliminates the need for blades and flaps, making the surgery painless and reducing the overall procedure time. Those undergoing laser treatment for their vision can resume their regular activities almost immediately after the procedure.

VOZ saves more than 30% of tissue, increasing safety, while SAFE helps in regaining vision quickly. Both the techniques developed between 2022 and 2023 have helped many patients with safe vision correction. The articles authored by Dr. Ladi on these techniques have been published in reputed national and international journals.

What’s interesting is that some eye experts have also undergone these procedures. Pune-based private practitioner and eye surgeon Dr. Manasi Godbole-Gharpure said, “I was wearing glasses from my childhood for short-sightedness, also known as Myopia. I always wanted to get rid of my glasses. I underwent the innovative Laser treatment of Dr. Jeevan Ladi myself & could resume my routine work immediately. Not only the Indian population, who have relatively less thickness of the cornea but also people from all over the world will benefit from VOZ & SAFE. I could start eye surgeries on my patients just 4 days after my laser surgery.”

Cataract Surgery Accuracy Enhanced by The Ladi Method

Thousands of eyes and counting, “The Ladi Method” is helping detect the power of lenses in a cost-effective way with excellent results.

The Ladi method, another technique invented by Dr. Jeevan Ladi is keeping cataract surgeries within the reach of common people by providing a cost-effective technique to detect the power of the lens. The method received copyright in 2023 and has benefitted thousands of patients undergoing cataract surgeries.

Dr. Jeevan Ladi said, “Cataracts are one of the major causes of blindness in India. After the surgery, an artificial lens is implanted inside the eye for spectacle independence. The Ladi method uses ultrasound to find the power of the lens. Compared to other methods it is inexpensive and within the reach of common people, delivering excellent results.”

Dr. Ladi added that the natural lens of the eye is removed during the cataract surgery and replaced with an artificial one which is called IOL (Intraocular Lens). Pre-cataract surgery measurements are a critical part of the process and contribute to the outcome of the surgery. This helps in spectacle independence post-surgery as the power of Lens is calculated more accurately. The measurements are run through a formula to determine the lens to be used.

The method is inexpensive and accurate and therefore brings benefits to all sections of society. Another advantage of the method is that it can be used with any technique of cataract surgeries like Laser, robotic, phaco, and manual surgeries.

Prof Dr Mrs Ranjana Pande, an Eye Surgeon & patient, and former professor of the Department of Ophthalmology, at B J Medical College & Sassoon General Hospital Pune, said, “Since I believed in the technology, I underwent cataract surgery with The Ladi Method by Dr Jeevan Ladi. Now I am spectacle-free for all my activities in daily work. This Ultrasound-based method is inexpensive and will help not only developing countries like India but all sections of society the world over.“

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PUNE: A team of doctors at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre performed optic nerve decompression, bony fixation to restore vision and bone grafting, and skull reconstruction to correct facial injuries near the eye orbit of a 26-year-old girl. The young IT professional had suffered complex injuries including eye orbit and lost her vision after being hit with stones hurled by a drunken person near the Ramtekdi area. A team of doctors at Noble Hospital and Research Centre including ENT expert Dr.Sudhir Halikar, Plastic surgeons Dr.Ravi Swaminathan and Dr Manoj Pawar, and ophthalmologist Dr. Sachin Bodhale pursued the case for six months with two complex procedures.

Explaining the case of Dr. Ravi Swaminathan. Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that about six months back the young girl was brought to our hospital with heavy bleeding cuts near her eye and fractured eye bones. She was riding a pillion on a bike when she was hit on the side of her eye. The soft tissue and bony injury had caused compression of her optic nerve and she had lost her vision.  She had also suffered serious facial injuries and that had complicated the situation. He added that the priority was to restore her vision.

A team at Nobel Hospitals under the leadership of ENT expert Dr.Sudhir Halikar and plastic surgeons Dr. Swaminathan performed the ‘Endoscopic Optic Nerve’ decompression procedure.

Dr.Sudhir Halikar, ENT surgeon at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that the procedure is conducted under general anesthesia.  The two-step procedure involved putting the endoscope along with other tools through the nose to open the sinuses behind the optic nerve and the eye. In the second step, the bone overlaying the optic canal was removed to make more space and ease some pressure on the optic nerve.

It is important to understand the structure of the portion near the eye orbit. The optic nerve is spread from the brain, through the skull to the eye. A portion of this nerve is also in a rigid bony tunnel near the skull. Any condition like injury, trauma, tumor, or overgrowth may cause compression or swelling increasing the pressure on the optic nerve. This may cause loss of vision. Therefore, reducing pressure on the optic nerve is important. Endoscopic optic nerve decompression is a minimally invasive procedure performed by ENT surgeons.

Dr. Swaminathan added that the second and equally important part included bone grafting and skull reconstruction. The first step involved decompression by cutting the overlaying bone reducing the pressure. But the orbital globe requires support and a bone cannot be placed inside as it will increase the pressure again. So the floor is reconstructed by giving the support of a titanium plate.

Plastic Surgeon Dr Manoj Pawar said that this is important to ensure the restoration of eye orbit contours. In simple terms, it helps to bring both eyes on the same horizontal level and correct double vision.

The stitches were removed and in August’s first week when the girl came for a follow-up, the doctors found the scars almost fully recovered.

Dr Divij Mane, Director of Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that It’s teamwork, commitment to the patients, and commitment to one another as a team that results in the best possible outcome for the patients. We congratulate our team for addressing this rare condition successfully.

Dr Dileep Mane, Managing Director of Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that we aim to deliver the most advanced care in the field backed by the best experts This case reflects how multidisciplinary team effort can bring the best results for the patient. We are happy that the aspiring youngster has restored vision and will be back soon to pursue her ambitions in life. 

The post From Darkness to Clarity: The Inspiring Story of an IT Professional’s Vision Restoration and Facial Reconstruction via Two-Stage Medical Procedures appeared first on NRI News.

Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital, located strategically in the picturesque town of Koothattukulam, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Kerala’s countryside, was established in the year 1931 by Vaidya Thrivikraman Namboothiri and his brother Vaidya Parameswaran Namboothiri, where Ayurveda Ophthalmology services were provided at their ancestral home of Nelliakattu Mana. It was then known not as Sreedhareeyam, but was called Shridhari Vaidyasala.

Thrivikraman Namboothiri practiced Medicine and Parameswaran Namboothiri would prepare and manufacture the medications in very small quantities for the patients. Often medications were prescribed by the Vaidyas (Doctors), and patients would go to Koothattukulam Vaidyasala or other ayurvedic stores, where they could purchase the 10-20 ingredients and prepare the medications at home.

Continuing these ancient Indian principles and focusing on the assessment and treatment of the eyes, Sreedhareeyam was taken to the next level through the dynamic leadership of Dr. NPP Namboothiri, who was trained under the guidance of Vaidyan Trivikraman Namboodiri and other eminent ophthalmology practitioners in Kerala. After his passing in 2021, Dr. Narayanan Namboothiri was entrusted with the role of Medical Director and led this prestigious Eye Hospital to newer heights.

In an exclusive interview with this writer, Dr. Namboothiri, who sees patients in the same house where he was born decades ago, says Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on the diagnosis of the disease. Those who practice Ayurveda use three tools: seeing, touching, and assessing, and often do not use any instruments for the diagnosis of one’s illness. For Vata, Pitta, and Kapha disorders, the doctor would carefully monitor the patient’s pulse at the onset and diagnose the illness.

The ancient Indian classics have described the ways to diagnose the severity of one’s illness by placing the fingers on the wrist area, and a physician can measure through the “Nadi Pariksha” which is pulse reading and one can assess and evaluate a person’s body, mind, soul, and spirit. Thus, Nadi Pariksha serves as a critical tool for diagnosis, prognosis, and determination of the Physiological and Pathological State of the Patient’s Body through the Science of Nadi Vigyan.

As per Dr. Namboothiri, there are about 40 to 45 Doctors in addition to hundreds of supporting staff here working at Sreedhareeyam and its branches across India and abroad, who are led and trained by some senior Doctors, who are also assisting in the treatment of patients here and other branches.

Dr. Narayanan Namboothiri, who used to personally meet and treat every patient who visited the hospital during the initial years, gives credit to the “dedication and commitment” of the staff for the success and growth of Sreedhareeyam. “Even though I cannot see everyone, the Senior Doctors, whom I had the privilege of training are now able to train other Doctors and every one of them helps realize the mission of Sreedhareeyam.”

Unlike in the past, where fresh medical ingredients were prepared by hand, now Sreedhareeyam boasts of its highly advanced medicines factory that prepares and manufactures medicines in large quantities that meet the growing demands of thousands of its patients and supply them to several other hospitals.

Sreedhareeyam, in its mission to share the ancient knowledge of Ayurveda, has its Research Wing that closely monitors and documents the impact of the treatment for other facilities and future generations to emulate from its own success stories of the thousands of patients who benefit from the treatment.

“Led by a team of Doctors, our Research Team has published scientific articles in renowned research journals which is an effective way of sharing ancient knowledge and wisdom and its impact on the current population, Dr. Namboothiri says. “When people read and hear about these concrete and evidence-based success stories, they come to Sreedhareeyam,” states Dr. Namboothiri, who does not believe in paid marketing campaigns to promote Sreedhareeyam and its impact on restoring vision to people.

Among the thousands of successful cases, Dr. Narayanan recalls how Sreedhareeyam could help restore the vision for Rose Mary Odinga, the daughter of Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya in 2023. After being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2017, Odinga’s daughter had undergone surgery in Nairobi. However, in the postoperative period, Rosemary complained of severe loss of eyesight. She traveled to India in 2019 and underwent treatment at Sreedhareeyam, which helped her vision restored.

Rose Mary said, that in 2018, she suffered from an aneurysm, and subsequently her eyesight became weak. For treatment, she went to Germany, Japan, and South Africa. “I also went to China two times, where I received treatment using acupuncture,” she said. Having not received much success, Rosemary Odinga finally came to India, where she underwent treatment at Sreedhareeyam, where she was treated in two sessions of three weeks each.

Dr. Namboothiri says, “When she came to us two years ago, she was blind with some light perception with no clear visibility. She came after having undergone several treatments in other countries. She had suffered the loss of eyesight due to an aneurysm and atrophy in the optic nerve.”

Rose Mary received Ayurvedic treatment, involving oral medication as well as rejuvenation therapy of the nervous system, “After the first session itself she showed signs of improvement,” he said. “When she first came, she was only left with some perception of light, and her field of vision was completely lost. Now, she is moving around,” Dr Namboothiri added. Rosemary said she was happy and excited to finally see Dr. Namboothiri. “(When I first met him), I could not see him, I could just hear his voice…follow his instructions. But now I can see him,” she said.

“I guess it is a testimony that AYUSH has helped someone else, other than India, from another part of the world. It is a testimony that it is universal, that solutions of AYUSH are universal, and I am proud to be part of this story,” said Rosemary Odinga. AYUSH denotes Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy. India has a federal ministry dedicated to these alternative medicine systems.

Mr. Odinga was all praise for the medical services rendered by the Sreedhareeyam, helping his daughter regain her eyesight.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his weekly “Man Ki Bhaat” mentioned Rosemary Odinga’s story and, while no medical treatment was helping her regain eyesight, Sreedhareeyam helped her.  “She was treated in many countries but did not regain her eyesight. At last, she found success in India, that too after Ayurveda treatment. Rosemary’s eyesight returned, and she can see now. Her father told me that when she saw her children for the first time after the treatment, it was a golden moment in her life,” Modi said.

Similar stories by people from abroad and in India are not uncommon. Ralitsa Dutch, a 37-year-old patient from the Netherlands shared about her experience at Sreedhareeyam and Ayurveda this way: “I experienced optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve about a Multiple Sclerosis (MS) relapse. Since then, my right eye has been heavily impaired. In 2013, when allopathic medicine deemed my case as “hopeless,” I started looking at alternative treatments and got to know about Ayurveda. The decision to come to India and undergo Ayurvedic treatment turned out to be life-changing. After a three-month stay at a specialized Ayurvedic MS center, my right eye “woke up” for the first time. After three consecutive stays, my MS stabilized, and I have not had any relapses ever since.”

Ralitsa went on to state that even though her MS stabilized, her vision did not come back to normal. It was in early 2023 “when I got to know about Sreedhareeyam, where I stayed for a two-week treatment. A year later, the test results showed improvement in the thickness of both the eye nerve and retina, indicating that 1) despite the 10-year gap, the nerve and retina are capable of regenerating and 2) there is a possibility of further regeneration followed by improvements of my eyesight.  And I believe, Ayurveda is a synonym of hope and I encourage anyone who feels hopeless to give it a try.”

Dr. Namboothiri says, many come to Sreedhareeyam as the last resort, where all other options, including most modern medicines, have failed them. According to him, in modern allopathic medicine, for each disease, there may be multiple medications prescribed, with several side effects. However, in Ayurveda, such a concept is not there. But, in Ayurveda, Doctors prescribe medications that target holistically and treat the basic cause of any disease.

On the connection between vegetarian food and ayurvedic medicine, Dr. Namboothiri says, “Food is at the center of the medicines we give to our patients. And it’s preferred that we eat food that is easily digestible.  In addition, vegetables contain lots of ingredients, including vitamins and the minerals our bodies need. Carbohydrates and protein, which are non-vegetarian items won’t digest easily and will add to the increase of fat in our body, which contributes to collapsing of the circulation of blood. Whenever the blood is not flowing and its pathway is getting obstructed, that leads to problems in the brain, and to the upper limbs or lower limbs everywhere. It is very difficult to treat a patient with obesity and is a major challenge.”

Regarding the growing interest now in Ayurveda and his thoughts for the upcoming Doctors and medical students who want to be “Another Dr. Narayanan,” Dr. Namboothiri says, that people coming from outside of Kerala are not getting sufficient exposure to other Ayurveda systems and ways of treatment. Here in Kerala, there are several Ayurvedic hospitals, where thousands of patients are being treated and medical students have direct knowledge and exposure. “My suggestion to those doctors is that it is important to practice medicine with a very good understanding of Ayurveda so that they can provide good relief to the patients with the Ayurvedic system of medicines. For instance, if someone has a fever, one should know that it can be resolved even with one day of fasting. Follow the Panchakarma procedure with which they can do wonders,” he added.

Dr. Namboothiri gives credit to “My Gurus in Ayurveda, my uncle NPP Namboothiri, and Dr. B Vaidyanadhan who was in Chennai and was a famous ayurvedic doctor, with whom I had the privilege of working for about a year. But quite often I used to go to him and learn from his approaches. He used to examine patients using the nadi parikshanam. He used to give only limited medicines, which are pinpointed, and treat the ailments in his patients. I learned a lot from him and his approach to treating patients.”

Dr. Namboothiri thanked the Modi government in India, saying “It is very helpful that the Modi Government promotes Ayurveda. The government is doing many things, and he is a very good ambassador for Ayurveda as well as Yoga. An All-India Institute of Ayurveda has been started in Delhi with centers in Gujarat and Goa. The creation of Ayush Ministry is a big boost for the ancient medical traditions of Inda.”

While describing the secret to the success and growth of Sreedhareeyam, especially in the past quarter century, Dr. Namboothiri says, “I am grateful to the Divine power of the Bhagavathi, who is in front of the hospital and the divine power of Mahadeva, who is behind the hospital.”

The treatment for every patient at Sreedhareeyam begins with praying and offerings to the Divine. The staff here gather before the Bhagavathi every morning at the “Naalukattu” where the hospital originated, seeking her blessings on every patient and staff. Dr. Narayanan says, “It’s the Prakasam, that is the lighting of the lamp all night and day before the Divine” that helps sustain the vision for all of our patients.” In addition, he says, “It’s not only that I feel the power of the Divine while entering the Hospital, but there are others who feel and share the same,” which is the secret to the success of the mission of Sreedhareeyam, which is “restoring the vision for all.”

Sreedhareeyam‘s commitment to the fusion of traditional Ayurveda with modern technology results in effective, safe, and reliable treatments for eye ailments. Sreedhareeyam has expanded and grown tremendously in its headquarters at Koothatukulam and has opened several new centers across many states in India and abroad. New sections are being constructed at Sreedhareeyam and there are plans to open new centers in other states across India and abroad.

When asked about the future of Sreedhareeyam, Dr. Namboothiri says, “At Sreedhareeyam, our major objective is that every patient should receive maximum benefit from the treatment we provide. We are not looking at having more patents each day, but we want to provide quality care to all those who come here seeking treatment.” 

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As part of observing Low Vision Awareness Month, Dr. Nishant, Consultant – Paediatric Ophthalmology at Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital Bannerghatta, urged increased awareness among both the general public and medical professionals regarding the early recognition of low vision issues and prompt initiation of treatment. He emphasized the importance of understanding low vision and blindness, including their causes, and highlighted the significance of early detection. Dr. Nishant also delved into the latest advancements in understanding, treating, and preventing various eye diseases, as well as the utilization of visual aids for enhancing vision.

Blindness signifies a complete loss or severe limitation of vision, while low vision denotes persistent visual challenges despite treatment. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in promoting awareness and support for those navigating visual impairments. A variety of conditions contribute to low vision, such as Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinitis Pigmentosa, optic nerve damage, Albinism, Cataract, Cortical Visual Impairment, Corneal Opacity, Toxoplasma, Retinal Detachment, and Amblyopia.

Dr. Nishant said “With millions affected by blindness and visual impairment in India, including thousands of children, the call for heightened awareness and action is urgent. Visual impairment not only hinders professional endeavors but also impacts daily activities. Yet, with adequate visual aids and support, individuals with low vision can overcome challenges and thrive independently. Early intervention not only preserves vision but also reduces the risk of complications that can significantly impact overall health and quality of life.”

Recent technological advancements have introduced a variety of aids to assist those with low vision. Optical devices, including hand-held telescopes, spectacles, and magnifiers, along with non-optical aids like reading lamps and guides, have made significant differences. Furthermore, electronic devices such as Closed-Circuit Video Magnification, as well as computer hardware and software providing screen magnification, synthesized speech, and tactile display, offer modern solutions to the challenges of low vision.

“It’s crucial to instill the habit of eye check-ups from a young age, as many vision problems can be effectively managed if detected early. By screening children between 3-5 years old, eye health professionals can identify conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes), which, if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision impairment. Similarly, adults over 40 are at higher risk for age-related eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Annual eye examinations can catch these conditions in their early stages when treatment is most effective. Moreover, individuals with diabetes and hypertension are susceptible to diabetic retinopathy and hypertensive retinopathy, respectively, which can cause severe vision loss if left unmanaged. Regular eye check-ups for these patients are crucial for detecting signs of retinal damage early and implementing measures to prevent further progression.” added Dr. Nishanth. 

This Low Vision Awareness Month, Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital is dedicated to raising awareness about the significance of eye health and the technologies available to assist individuals living with low vision. By disseminating knowledge and promoting regular eye examinations, the hospital aims to collaborate in mitigating the impact of low vision on both individuals and society.

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