Retinal detachment is an eye condition where the retina, a layer of tissue at the back of the eye, separates from the tissues supporting it.
Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha will undergo a vitrectomy surgery in the United Kingdom to prevent the eye's retinal detachment.
The decision of AAP MP Raghav Chadha to undergo eye surgery in the United Kingdom instead of in India is raising questions from all quarters.
Chadha has chosen to undergo a vitrectomy surgery in the United Kingdom to prevent the eye’s retinal detachment.
The MP has been advised to undergo this surgery in the UK under the supervision of a senior specialist. Presently his eye condition is stable with no loss of vision.
While the exact nature of his eye disease can only be determined by the medical team, many are questioning why he chose to seek treatment in the UK, considering that India is renowned for its expertise in ophthalmology — often considered on par with Western countries
This is the truth. Politicians who speak about government hospitals provide a excellent facility will always go to private hospitals or to foreign countries.#GovernmentHospital https://t.co/JVLvyPfP1H
— Vishnu (@dstvishnu) March 17, 2024
India has some of the finest vitreo-retinal surgeons in the world. #JustSaying https://t.co/giYKSzGCV8
— Sumanth Raman (@sumanthraman) March 17, 2024
Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina, a layer of tissue at the back of the eye, separates from the tissues supporting it. This separation can lead to issues of vision and even blindness if not promptly treated.
There are three main types of retinal detachment: Rhegmatogenous, tractional, and exudative, each caused by different underlying issues that result in the retina moving away from the back of the eye.
Symptoms of retinal detachment include the sudden appearance of floaters, flashes of light, blurred vision, and the sensation of a dark shadow or curtain in the field of vision.
Treatment for retinal detachment often involves surgery, such as pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle, or vitrectomy, depending on the severity of the detachment.
Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent vision loss associated with retinal detachment.
Confirming that the surgery is available in India, an ophthalmologist told South First that many government as well as private hospitals and institutes in the country are equipped to perform the surgery.
“Apart from the high-end private hospitals, government-run hospitals like Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital in Hyderabad have the facilities for this treatment, with good post-surgical care,” said the Hyderabad-based ophthalmologist.
The best eye care hospitals in India include renowned institutions like Sankara Nethralaya, Eye Q Hospital, Centre For Sight, Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Narayana Nethralaya, Aravind Eye Hospital, and Kenia Eye Hospital.
These hospitals have established a legacy for providing top-tier eye treatment and successful eye surgeries, offering comprehensive eye care services with skilled doctors and advanced technologies to address various eye conditions effectively.
“It is clear that India boasts cutting-edge facilities and highly skilled professionals in the field of ophthalmology. Leading institutions such as Shankara Netralaya are renowned for their state-of-the-art equipment and high-quality retinal surgeries. Moreover, major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi are home to private practitioners and centres specialising in advanced retina procedures,” HoD of the Ophthalmology department at MGM Healthcare in Chennai, Dr E Ravindra Mohan told South First.
“Many prominent figures, including prime ministers, ministers, judges, and bureaucrats, have undergone successful surgeries within the country,” he added.
Dr Mohan said that given the excellence of Indian ophthalmology, the decision of the MP to seek treatment in the UK raises questions about their confidence in the Indian healthcare system.
“The availability of top-notch technology and expertise in India makes it puzzling why one would opt for treatment abroad. The cost of the surgery in esteemed Indian institutions like LV Prasad or Shankara Netralaya is relatively affordable, typically ranging from ₹80,000 to ₹1 lakh,” said Dr Mohan.
He added that in essence, India has some of the finest ophthalmological institutions globally, attracting patients not only from within the country but also from overseas, including the UK.
“Therefore, the decision to seek treatment abroad seems unnecessary and perhaps indicative of other motives rather than concerns about the quality or availability of healthcare services in India,” Dr Mohan said.
He reminisced that at one time, Shankar Netralaya used to attract many patients from the UK due to its reputation for excellence in eye care.
However, there have been instances where individuals have been discouraged from seeking medical treatment in developing countries due to various reasons, including concerns about the quality of care or fear of complications.
“Despite this, India has emerged as a global hub for medical tourism, offering world-class facilities and expertise across various medical specialities, including oncology and high-end radiation treatment,” said Dr Mohan who had practised at Sankara Nethralaya.
Institutions like Shankar Netralaya rank among the top 20 eye hospitals globally, as recognised by international surveys.
“They have treated prominent figures, including the spouses of presidents and chief ministers. When I was there at Shankar Netralaya, I treated Devisingh Ramsingh Shekhawat, the spouse of former president of India Pratibha Patil. Therefore, it raises questions when public figures choose to seek medical treatment abroad, especially when comparable or even superior options are available within the country,” he said.
A Hyderabad-based ophthalmologist said that the decision to seek treatment abroad may reflect personal preferences or other motives, but it should not overshadow India’s remarkable advancements in healthcare.
It’s essential to recognise and celebrate the expertise and infrastructure present within the country, which has earned global recognition and attracts patients from around the world, the doctor said.
“Ultimately, individuals should have faith in India’s healthcare system and its ability to provide top-quality care. Investments in healthcare infrastructure and expertise have positioned India as a leader in the field, drawing admiration and interest from international institutions. Therefore, it’s important to acknowledge and support the growth of India’s healthcare sector while questioning decisions that seem to undermine its achievements,” said the ophthalmologist.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil)
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