Ophthalmology - Overview

Department of Ophthalmology came into existence in S.S.Institute of Medical Sciences and research Centre in 2004 & was a part of undergraduate curriculum in 2009. Dr.Umesh .G.S, Professor of Ophthalmology, as the first Head of the department, has been responsible for the development of curriculum and clinical services right from its inception .Subsequently Dr.PrakashV.Suranagi, contributed significantly for the improvement of department along with Dr.Shantala Arunkumar and Dr.Ajay S.Hatti.

The Postgraduate course - M.S. Ophthalmology started in 2012 . Presently the Department has recognition for intake of 2 M.S. candidates by the MCI. In addition the department provides excellent clinical facilities in the Ultra modern hi-tech S.S..Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Davangere. Ophthalmology OPD is well equipped with three consultation rooms accommodating Zeiss slit lamp biomicroscope attached with applanation tonometer and digital camera. The department is also equipped with indirect ophthalmoscope, Goldman’s and Zeiss indentation goniolenses, automated Humphrey’s visual fiels analyser, synoptophore,a-scan, green laser’s, Fundus camera etc., The out patient services include speciality clinics i.e., retina, glaucoma, cornea, squint and orthoptics,neuro-ophthalmology,occuloplasty and low vision aid clinic. Added to it are a seminar hall and library with a sitting capacity of 40 students and an eye bank facility. The operation theatres are equipped with Carl Zeiss Operating Microscope, Alcon’s infinity phacoemulsification unit and Reticare automated vitrectomy machine for posterior segment surgeries and CCTV Camera for the benefit of clinical teaching programmes & workshops.

The Department carries out many research activities both as a part of PG dissertation work and independent research projects. The department has been conducting many live workshops, CMEs to keep pace with the advance in knowledge and technology.

The Department of Ophthalmology has been associated with NPCB and Eye bank activities since its inception and carries outreach rural screening programmes and operative work in the base hospital routinely.

The department is exploring to take up clinical trials, research projects with external funding agencies.