Key Highlights
- The upgrade: 18 advanced phacoemulsification machines for cataract surgery approved for Gujarat’s government hospitals.
- Cost: Over ₹8.85 crore, about ₹49 lakh per machine.
- Biggest share: M and J Institute of Ophthalmology, Ahmedabad, gets seven machines.
- For patients: Modern cataract treatment, free at government institutions.
- Approved by: State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya.
Government hospitals and medical colleges across Gujarat will receive 18 advanced phacoemulsification machines for cataract surgery, following approval by state Health Minister Praful Pansheriya on Thursday. The machines will cost more than ₹8.85 crore.
The state government said the equipment would help patients access modern eye treatment free of cost at government institutions.
Where the Machines Are Going
| Institution | City | Machines |
|---|---|---|
| M and J Institute of Ophthalmology | Ahmedabad | 7 |
| Government Medical College | Bhavnagar | 2 |
| GMERS Hospital | Morbi | 2 |
| New Civil Hospital | Surat | 1 |
| Old Civil Hospital | Surat | 1 |
| GG General Hospital | Jamnagar | 1 |
| ESIC General Hospital | Vadodara | 1 |
| GMERS institution | Gandhinagar | 1 |
| GMERS institution | Vadnagar | 1 |
| GMERS institution | Himmatnagar | 1 |
How the Technology Helps, Simply Explained
In phacoemulsification, surgeons use ultrasound energy to break the cloudy lens into tiny fragments and remove them through a very small cut, before placing a new artificial lens. The new machines are designed to make this safer and smoother:
- Precise control: Surgeons can adjust ultrasound energy, suction and fluid flow with a foot pedal, as each surgery requires.
- Stable eye pressure: A built-in system helps prevent sudden pressure drops inside the eye during surgery, a known risk.
- Less heat: The handpiece reduces heat near the incision, helping to limit swelling of the cornea after surgery.
The result is aimed at fewer complications and faster recovery.
Why It Matters: Restoring Sight Where It’s Needed Most
Cataract is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in India, especially among older people. For many families, the cost of surgery at a private hospital is a barrier. Advanced machines in government hospitals mean patients can get modern, high-quality surgery without paying for it.
The spread of machines, from big cities like Ahmedabad and Surat to towns such as Morbi, Vadnagar and Himmatnagar, also means patients outside major cities may not need to travel as far for treatment.
When to See an Eye Doctor
- Blurred or cloudy vision that keeps getting worse
- Difficulty seeing at night or glare from lights
- Faded colours or frequent changes in spectacle power
Anyone with these symptoms, especially those above 50, should get an eye check-up at the nearest government hospital.
The Bottom Line
With 18 new machines, Gujarat’s government hospitals are set to offer faster, safer cataract surgery, free for patients who need it most.
With inputs from IANS.