Dr. Mallikarjun Heralgi, a renowned Consultant in Cornea and Refractive Surgery at Sankara Eye Hospital, Shivamogga, has been granted a patent by the Government of India's Patent Office for his invention—an IRIS Retractor designed to manage Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery. This patent, secured under the Patent Acts of 1970, is valid for 20 years and marks a significant advancement in the field of ophthalmic surgery.
IFIS is a challenging condition that occurs during cataract surgery, characterised by the iris's tendency to flutter, prolapse towards surgical incisions, and progressively constrict the pupil, leading to a higher risk of complications. The IRIS Retractor developed by Dr. Heralgi offers a solution to these challenges, ensuring better surgical outcomes even in cases of small pupils.
Dr. R.V. Ramani, Founder and Managing Trustee of Sankara Eye Foundation, India, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, “We are delighted that Dr. Mallikarjun Heralgi has been awarded this patent. It is a recognition of the world-class research and dedication that our institution and its experts bring to the field of ophthalmology. Dr. Heralgi's innovation reflects his vast experience in cataract surgery, and we are committed to supporting such excellence in medical research.”
Dr. Heralgi emphasised the significance of this invention, noting, “This patent is a testament to the unique research undertaken in the field of cataract surgery. The IRIS Retractor is an advanced tool that addresses the challenges of IFIS and has the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes. Our initial results are promising, and we look forward to further studies on a larger scale. This device has the capability to enhance the quality of life for many individuals suffering from cataract-related issues.”
The device is expected to benefit a large number of patients across both urban and rural areas, especially given the high prevalence of cataract surgeries in India. With this invention, Sankara Eye Hospital continues to lead the way in innovative healthcare solutions, contributing to better surgical outcomes and improved patient care.
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