Eighteen patients who underwent cataract surgery at Garden Reach State General Hospital and Metiabruz Super Speciality Hospital in late June are facing serious complications, with one patient potentially losing vision in one eye, according to a senior doctor at the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology.
Dr. Asim Kumar Ghosh, Director of the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology (RIO) located in the Medical College Kolkata campus, disclosed on Monday that the surgeries conducted last month resulted in several patients complaining of impaired vision post-operation. Subsequently, all affected individuals were referred to RIO in early July for further treatment.
“We have performed corrective procedures and implemented infection control measures,” stated Dr. Ghosh, expressing concern about the prognosis for one patient in his mid-70s. “Unfortunately, there is little optimism regarding his recovery of vision in the operated eye.”
Dr. Ghosh reported positive outcomes for the remaining 17 patients, noting, “Most patients have shown improvement with no further spread of infection. While partial vision has been restored, we remain committed to ongoing treatment and support should any complications arise.”
A private hospital ophthalmologist suggested that contamination of the fluids used during cataract surgeries, specifically “BSS” (Balanced Salt Solution) and a visco-elastic device, might have contributed to the post-surgical infections.
Family members of affected patients expressed frustration over the delayed recovery. Meher Sultana, 65, has yet to regain vision in her left eye despite treatment efforts at RIO. “We are still waiting for improvement,” said her son, Sheikh Islamuddin, 40, recounting their ongoing ordeal since her discharge.
Another patient, Gobinda Chandra Debnath, 62, also continues to face vision loss in his left eye. His wife, Sujata Debnath, 46, emphasized the economic impact on their family, with Gobinda being the sole breadwinner as an electrician.
Efforts to address the situation are ongoing, with patients and their families closely monitoring developments as they await further updates from medical authorities.
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