Media Release
Udupi, Mar 18: Department of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College and Hospital Manipal organised a clinical hands-on training session titled ‘See the Disc, See the Retina, Save the Vision’ on March 14 to train postgraduate students in the use of the direct ophthalmoscope for optic disc and retinal examination.
The programme was conducted by the Department of Ophthalmology as part of activities marking World Glaucoma Week 2026 (March 8–14) with the aim of promoting awareness about glaucoma and the importance of early detection.
The session was inaugurated by Dr Vimal Krishnan, professor and head of the Department of Emergency Medicine, who delivered an insightful talk on the importance of fundus examination in routine clinical practice. He emphasized that early detection of eye conditions through simple examinations can help prevent permanent vision loss.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Neetha K I R, associate professor and glaucoma specialist, highlighted that glaucoma is often called the ‘silent thief of sight’ because it usually does not show symptoms in its early stages. She explained that the disease often progresses without pain, redness, or noticeable vision problems, and by the time symptoms appear, significant and irreversible vision loss may have already occurred. Hence, regular screening is essential, especially for individuals at risk.
The training emphasised that patients often first approach physicians or emergency departments with their health complaints. In such situations, the ability of clinicians to perform a quick optic disc and retinal examination using a direct ophthalmoscope can help identify serious or vision-threatening conditions at an early stage, enabling timely referral and management.
The programme included practical hands-on training sessions conducted at the clinical skills lab of KMC Manipal. Postgraduate students from the departments of Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Ophthalmology actively participated and gained practical experience in performing direct ophthalmoscopy in a structured learning environment.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Srividya Balakrishnan, Glaucoma fellow. The training programme was well received by the participants and highlighted the importance of early diagnosis in preventing vision loss.