Dr Sharon Dsouza

Consultant in Cornea and Refractive surgery

Dr Solanki Eye Hospital, Bangalore

I got the opportunity to observe a lot of interesting cases across the entire spectrum of corneal diseases including various cases requiring post lamellar keratoplasty; both anterior and endothelial, ocular surface disease, keratitis, keratoconus and dry eye.

The entire schedule was divided between the out patient department and the operation theatre of the hospital and I got the opportunity to observe a lot of interesting cases across the entire spectrum of corneal disease including various cases requiring and post lamellar keratoplasty; both anterior and endothelial, ocular surface disease, keratitis, keratoconus and dry eye. I could also observe a number of complex cases such as DALK on an eye with previous DSAEK, DSAEK in eyes with glaucoma drainage tubes and follow ups of patients having undergone osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis. All the consultants were extremely patient and forthcoming in their discussions regarding patient care, planning and management inspite of their busy schedule and I really appreciate the interest shown by them. The tips and surgical pearls shared by the doctors for the management of each case were invaluable.

During my observership, I also observed a number of surgeries including various types keratoplasty (DALK, DSAEK, DMEK and PKP) and since I am extremely interested in endothelial keratoplasty, this was a good opportunity for me to observe the variations in technique which make outcomes more preditable . It was my great privilege to observe Professor Donald Tan and interact regarding complex cases. I have already started implementing many of these finer points and techniques in my practice.

I also visited Singapore National Eye Centre Eye bank, and observed preparation of donor cornea and pre-cut tissue for ALTK and DSAEK. It is an impressive set up with meticulous attention to detail.

I sincerely thank Asia Cornea Society for awarding me this grant and the opportunity to come to Singapore National Eye Centre. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the Cornea Specialists I met at SNEC, especially Professor Donald Tan, Professor Jodhbir Mehta, and Professor Lim Li for making the observorship so fruitful. I would also like to thank Ms. Rhonda for co-ordinating the entire observership schedule with such painstaking detail.

It is indeed a great opportunity and I would encourage all ophthalmologists and cornea specialists to apply for this educational grant from Asia Cornea Society.