The Department of Ophthalmology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu has successfully performed its first orbital tumor surgery (orbitotomy), marking a significant milestone in the advancement of super-specialty healthcare in the Jammu region.
This complex and high-stakes surgery was led by Dr. Nazia Anjum, Assistant Professor, who has played a pivotal role in establishing Oculoplasty services at the Institute. She was ably supported by Dr. Asma Jabeen (Senior Resident) and Dr. Supritam Das (Junior Resident). The procedure involved meticulous surgical planning and precision to preserve the patient’s vision and vital orbital structures.
“Performing this surgery was both a challenge and an opportunity. It reflects our department’s growing capabilities and our commitment to offering advanced eye care locally,” said Dr. Nazia Anjum.
The patient, a middle-aged individual from rural Jammu, had been suffering from progressive eye bulging (proptosis), discomfort, and visual disturbance for several months. With limited access to specialized care in the past, his condition had gone undiagnosed until the Ophthalmology team at AIIMS Jammu undertook a detailed evaluation aided by high-resolution CT and MRI imaging. The scans revealed a high-risk orbital tumor, pressing against critical eye structures.
Under the expert supervision of Dr. Nitin Kumar (Associate Professor) and the clinical guidance of Dr. Bhavani Raina (Head of Department, Ophthalmology), the team carried out a successful orbitotomy. The tumor was excised in toto, with no intraoperative complications. Postoperatively, the patient showed excellent recovery with restored ocular alignment, no loss of vision, and significant relief from symptoms.
“This case demonstrates AIIMS Jammu’s readiness to handle advanced surgical procedures with precision and care. Our goal is to ensure that no patient in the region has to travel far for such life-changing treatments,” said Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Jammu.
The critical anaesthesia support during the procedure was provided by Dr. Sunaina Gupta, Dr. Raksha Kundal, Dr. Salomi Gupta, and Dr. Bindu, whose expertise ensured patient safety throughout the surgical course.
The successful completion of this surgery not only highlights the capabilities of the Department of Ophthalmology but also represents AIIMS Jammu’s broader vision of delivering world-class, super-specialty care to underserved regions.
With this milestone, the institute has officially launched its Oculoplasty and Orbital Services, and plans are underway to further expand into lacrimal and eyelid surgeries, bringing a full spectrum of sub-specialty eye care to the region.
