Rameshwaram Café Blast Survivor regains eyesight after complex surgeries performed by doctors at Nethradhama
Mumbai, 27 August 2024: Nethradhama, a renowned leader in ophthalmology, has successfully restored the eyesight of a survivor from the Rameshwaram Café blast that occurred earlier this year in Bengaluru. The 26-year-old woman from Bengaluru suffered a complete loss of vision in her right eye due to severe injuries sustained in the blast. Over the past four months, Nethradhama’s expert medical team performed a series of complex and advanced surgeries, ultimately restoring 80-90% of her vision.
The Nethradhama Center of Excellence in Jayanagar is one of the few eye care hospitals in Bengaluru that operates a 24-hour emergency department, ensuring immediate and high-quality care for patients at any time. Equipped with the latest in ophthalmic technology, the center offers a comprehensive range of eye care services, including advanced diagnostic and surgical procedures.
Continuing its commitment to providing world-class eye care, Nethradhama has expanded its reach with the launch of a new super specialty eye care hospital in Whitefield, Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art facility was inaugurated by Smt. Nagashree PR, the courageous survivor of the Rameshwaram Café blast, whose inspiring recovery has touched many.
At the inauguration, Smt. Nagashree expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honored to inaugurate this new facility by Nethradhama, an institution with a long-standing legacy of excellence in eye care. This center will undoubtedly serve many patients with severe eye conditions. The care and treatment I received at Nethradhama were exceptional. I never imagined regaining my eyesight after such a devastating injury, but thanks to the doctors here and the advanced technologies they use, what seemed impossible became a reality.”
Dr. Sri Ganesh, Chairman and Managing Director of Nethradhama, commented on the successful treatment, saying, “Nethradhama has always been at the forefront of bringing groundbreaking technology to Indian eye care. Our goal is to ensure that every patient receives the best care possible, supported by the latest innovations. Managing such severe injuries is always a challenge, but with the right expertise and technology, we can achieve outcomes that were once thought impossible. Smt. Nagashree’s recovery is a powerful example of the possibilities in modern eye care.”
Dr. Suman Shree, CEO and Director of Nethradhama, highlighted the hospital’s capabilities in handling complex cases. “As a referral center, Nethradhama often takes on some of the most challenging eye conditions. Our team is equipped to meet these challenges head-on, using innovative techniques and multiple surgical approaches. Smt. Nagashree’s case demonstrates how our expertise and technology can combine to deliver extraordinary results. Her courage throughout her treatment has been an inspiration to all of us, and we were honored that she agreed to inaugurate our new center of excellence.”
Dr. Supriya Sriganesh, Executive Director at Nethradhama, elaborated on Smt. Nagashree’s challenging journey to recovery. “When Smt. Nagashree presented at Nethradhama four days after the blast, her right eye was severely damaged. The eyeball was ruptured, the cornea torn, the lens damaged, and the retina affected by scarring and inflammation. Despite the grim prognosis, our medical team embarked on a rigorous treatment plan, starting with anti-inflammatory medication to stabilize her condition, followed by a combined cornea and retina surgery. We utilized the latest surgical tools, including a 3D microscope with intraoperative OCT for real-time imaging during surgery and minimally invasive vitrectomy systems for retinal repair.
The vitrectomy was expertly performed by retina specialist Dr. Pradeep TM, while the corneal repair was conducted by Dr. Vineeta Pai. After these initial procedures, the team allowed time for healing before performing a secondary intraocular lens implant. This final surgery, led by Dr. Sri Ganesh, employed a specialized technique known as the dumbbell technique, restoring 80% of Smt. Nagashree’s vision.
Nethradhama’s commitment to excellence is evident not only in its clinical care but also in its contributions to ophthalmic research. The hospital is the first in India to be accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NABH) and recognized by the International Society for Quality Health Care (ISQUA). Nethradhama has published over 100 peer-reviewed research papers and holds several patents for innovative intraocular lens (IOL) designs and surgical instruments, reflecting its dedication to advancing the field of ophthalmology and improving patient outcomes.
The launch of the Whitefield center marks a significant milestone in Nethradhama’s ongoing mission to deliver world-class eye care across India. This new facility is poised to make a substantial impact on the lives of patients in Bengaluru and beyond, offering hope and healing through advanced technology and compassionate care.
