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26 Dec 2024

Eyes of the Past: India’s Ancient Gift to Modern Sight

Written by

The Logical Indian

Category

Science and Wellbeing

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Introduction

Cataract surgery, a miraculous feat in modern medicine, has a history deeply rooted in ancient India. Imagine a time over two millennia ago when healers in the Indian subcontinent were pioneering techniques to bring light to eyes clouded by cataracts. Today, as we marvel at the advanced and virtually painless cataract surgeries, it is essential to acknowledge the rich heritage that traces back to the genius minds of ancient Indian doctors.

History

In the 5th century BC, ancient Indian physicians practised a technique known as ‘couching’ to address cataracts. In this method, the skilled surgeon dislodged the cataractous lens into the back of the eye, allowing light to enter and restore limited but unfocused vision. This early innovation paved the way for similar methods like ‘needling’ employed by the Greeks and Egyptians, where the cataract was sliced into particles that the body could absorb. Though not perfect, these techniques marked a crucial step in treating cataracts and preserving vision.

The evolution continued, and extracapsular cataract extraction replaced the ancient couching technique. Sushruta, an Indian surgeon practising around 600 BC, is credited as the first to perform extracapsular cataract extraction. This marked a significant advancement, setting the stage for future developments in cataract surgery. The first recorded surgical cataract extraction in the West took place in Paris in 1747, a testament to the global impact of these ancient innovations.

Evolution in 20ᵗʰ century

Fast forward to the mid-20th century when modern cataract surgery, with the introduction of intraocular lens implants (IOLs), revolutionised the field. Dr Harold Ridley's pioneering research on replacing cataractous lenses with artificial polymethyl methacrylate lenses paved the way for a new era in cataract surgery.

Today, various cataract surgery techniques showcase the progress made over the centuries. One such technique is extracapsular cataract extraction, involving a 6mm limbal incision, intraocular lens implantation, and sutures. While not as widely practised, it played a role in the historical development of cataract surgery.

Small incision sutureless cataract surgery, a stitchless procedure with a scleral tunnel incision, is ideal for advanced cataract cases where phacoemulsification might not be suitable. Micro-incision cataract surgery further minimises invasiveness, with incisions less than 2.0 mm, enhancing refractive outcomes.

The evolution reaches its peak with laser-assisted cataract surgery, the latest advancement. This method, guided by optical coherence tomography, utilises a laser for precise corneal incisions, offering unparalleled accuracy. This cutting edge technique exemplifies the ongoing contributions of modern science to the field of cataract surgery.

Sushruta’s work towards cataract Surgery

Amidst these advancements, it is crucial to recognise the historical roots of these innovations. Sushruta, the celebrated physician-surgeon from ancient India, left an indelible mark with his groundbreaking work. His detailed classification of eye diseases, including what could be the earliest extracapsular cataract surgery, showcases his unparalleled virtuosity. In a time when diagnostic aids were limited, Sushruta’s ability to manage common eye conditions laid the foundation for the remarkable progress we witness today.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as we benefit from the marvels of modern cataract surgery, let us not forget the ancient roots that laid the groundwork for these advancements. India’s contributions to the world of medicine, especially in ophthalmology, are profound and continue to shape the way we perceive the gift of sight. The journey from couching to laser-assisted surgery is a testament to human ingenuity, with India playing a significant role in this fascinating odyssey through time.

References

● National Center For Biotechnology Information

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9476614/#:~:text=In%20particular%2C%20 Sushruta%20describes%20what,a%20testament%20to%20his%20virtuosity

● Neoretina Eyecare center

https://neoretina.com/blog/evolution-of-cataract-surgery-types-of-surgery and-advantages-of-technological-advancements/

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IndiaFirst Life & the logical indian

Headquartered in Mumbai, IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life), is one of the country's youngest life insurance companies. The Logical Indian is an independent and public-spirited digital media platform for Indian Millennials. IndiaFirst Life and The Logical Indian have come together to showcase India’s rich history of innovation in different fields of life which have made a significant mark on humanity and globally. The information presented here is the result of a collaborative effort between The IndiaFirst Life, Dentsu Creative & The Logical Indian. All research and fact-finding is credited to Dentsu Creative in association with The Logical Indian.