Ophthalmology

The Department of Ophthalmology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur, has rapidly evolved into a center of excellence for comprehensive eye care, academic training, and community service. The department has remained committed to delivering high-quality, evidence-based, and accessible ophthalmic care to patients from Rajasthan and neighboring regions. Under the able leadership of Prof. Kavita R. Bhatnagar, Professor and Head, the department has grown both in scope and stature, earning recognition for its advanced sub-specialty services and innovative educational programs.

The department is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technologies that support a full spectrum of ophthalmic care. Services offered include management of common and complex conditions in the fields of Cataract, Retina and Vitreous, Cornea and Ocular Surface Disorders, Glaucoma, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Squint, Oculoplasty and Ophthalmic Emergencies. Special emphasis is placed on the management of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), where AIIMS Jodhpur has taken a pioneering role in Rajasthan by offering laser treatment, intravitreal injections, and surgical interventions free of cost to premature infants.

The clinical services are bolstered by advanced equipment such as the Lumera 700 microscope, Constellation vitrectomy system, Pascal Retina Laser, and Optos Ultra-Wide Field Retinal Imaging, enabling precision and excellence in diagnosis and treatment. The department has also been designated as a Cornea Transplant Centre under the Human Organ Transplant Act, routinely performing corneal transplant surgeries in collaboration with the Rajasthan Eye Bank. Ocular surface reconstruction techniques such as SLET (Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation) and Amniotic Membrane Grafting are also offered regularly.

Academically, the department provides a robust platform for undergraduate and postgraduate training. Students receive hands-on experience in both clinical and surgical settings, along with regular exposure to academic activities including journal clubs, seminars, workshops, and national conferences. The department is known for fostering a culture of learning, mentorship, and research. Faculty members have earned national accolades for their contributions to medical education and public health, including the prestigious Sushrut Samman and Young Ophthalmic Teachers of India award.

The department also remains deeply committed to community ophthalmology. Through initiatives such as Project Roshni, in collaboration with RPC, AIIMS Delhi and CBM, the department has established a Low Vision Clinic and expanded rural outreach services. Eye care services are provided under government schemes like Chiranjeevi Yojana and Ayushman Bharat, ensuring equity and affordability for underserved populations.

The department proudly celebrates the achievements of its alumni, who have secured competitive fellowship positions at prestigious institutions across India and abroad, including AIIMS Delhi, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Aravind Eye Hospital, Sankara Nethralaya, and centers in the USA and UK.

With a strong foundation in clinical care, education, research, and public health, the Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS Jodhpur continues to lead with innovation, compassion, and a commitment to excellence

The Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS Jodhpur envisions becoming a national center of excellence and a globally recognized institution in ophthalmic sciences. Guided by the belief that quality eye care is a fundamental right, we aim to eliminate avoidable visual impairment, regardless of socioeconomic or geographic barriers.

Our mission includes delivering comprehensive, compassionate, and accessible eye care using the latest diagnostic and surgical innovations. We are committed to academic excellence by training undergraduate, postgraduate, and superspecialty students through a hands-on, ethical, and research-driven education model.

We foster a robust culture of research and innovation, translating scientific progress into impactful clinical outcomes. Our community outreach initiatives target rural and underserved populations, leveraging sustainable care models and government schemes to reduce preventable blindness.

We actively seek collaboration with national and international centers of excellence, ensuring alignment with global best practices. We also support alumni in pursuing advanced fellowships and academic careers worldwide, building a strong global network of AIIMS Jodhpur-trained ophthalmologists.

Through clinical leadership, academic rigor, and social commitment, we aim to set new standards in ophthalmic education, research, and care.

The Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS Jodhpur offers an extensive range of sub-specialty services, integrating cutting-edge technology, expert faculty, and a patient-centric approach to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care across all ophthalmic domains. Comprehensive eye care includes routine screenings, refraction, and the management of common ocular conditions. Cataract and refractive services feature advanced procedures like phacoemulsification and microincision surgeries, with premium intraocular lenses including Toric, Multifocal, SFIOLs, and ICL for high refractive errors, supported by biometry with IOL Master. The cornea unit is a recognized transplant center offering PK, DALK, DSEK, and DMEK, alongside ocular surface reconstruction using SLET, AMG, and MMG. The retina services manage diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, and ARMD, with treatments like intravitreal injections, Pascal laser, and vitrectomy using the Constellation system, aided by Optos ultra-widefield imaging. Dedicated Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) services include free screenings, bedside laser treatments, and anti-VEGF therapy for neonates. Glaucoma services encompass detailed diagnostics and both medical and surgical interventions. Pediatric ophthalmology addresses congenital cataracts, glaucoma, refractive errors, and includes squint correction and amblyopia therapy. Neuro-ophthalmology focuses on optic nerve and neuro-visual pathway disorders with visual field testing and imaging. The oculoplasty and orbit unit offers eyelid, lacrimal, and reconstructive surgeries, including prosthetic rehabilitation and aesthetic procedures. Low vision care is enhanced through Project Roshni, providing specialty lenses and visual aids. Emergency and trauma services operate round-the-clock for ocular injuries and acute conditions. The department also runs robust community outreach through rural camps, school screenings, and national health programs like Ayushman Bharat and Chiranjeevi Yojana.