Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology

The Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology (TIO) is a distinguished entity in the field of eye care, operating under the Nepal Eye Program, which was officially launched in July 1992. Originally known as the Tilganga Eye Centre, TIO is a not-for-profit, community-based organization dedicated to the prevention and control of blindness in Nepal and the surrounding region. The institute stands as a model for treatment, research, and training, playing a pivotal role in eye health in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH) of Nepal.

Since its inception, TIO has made significant strides in the field of ophthalmology. The facility, which opened its doors in 1994, has grown into a comprehensive eye care institution that includes six distinct divisions. These divisions cater to various aspects of ophthalmology, ensuring that TIO remains at the forefront of eye care and education.

Divisions of Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology (TIO)

1. Tilganga Eye Hospital (TEH):
   TEH is a fully modern ophthalmic facility equipped with state-of-the-art technology. It has been recognized as a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Ophthalmology since June 2019, underscoring its global significance in eye care.

2. Academic and Training Department:
   This department offers a range of educational programs, including fellowships, academic courses, and both short- and long-term training opportunities. The programs are designed to equip students and professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field of ophthalmology.

3. Outreach Department:
   The Outreach Department conducts cataract screening and surgical camps across Nepal and in some countries abroad. This initiative aims to provide eye care services to underprivileged communities, extending TIO's impact beyond its immediate surroundings.

4. Research Department:
   Focused on improving both clinical and operational practices, the Research Department is at the heart of TIO's innovation. It conducts extensive research to advance ophthalmic care and to refine the techniques and technologies used in eye health.

5. Nepal Eye Bank:
   The Nepal Eye Bank operates an eye donation program that provides corneas to individuals suffering from corneal blindness. This initiative plays a crucial role in reducing blindness by facilitating corneal transplants.

6. Manufacturing Facility:
   TIO's manufacturing facility produces world-class intraocular lenses (IOLs) at an affordable cost. This facility has been instrumental in making cataract surgeries more accessible, particularly in developing countries.

Early Collaborations and Achievements

In its early years, TIO collaborated with The Fred Hollows Foundation (FHF) in Australia to develop and adapt a practical, safe, and affordable technique for intraocular lens implantation in cataract surgeries. This innovation significantly impacted eye care in developing countries, making cataract surgeries more accessible and affordable.

TIO also established Nepal's first eye bank in collaboration with Tissue Banks International in Baltimore, USA, and Lions International. This milestone was crucial in addressing corneal blindness in the region by providing a steady supply of corneas for transplantation.

Another significant international partnership was formed with the Himalayan Cataract Project (HCP) in the USA. Through this collaboration, TIO launched unique projects aimed at empowering local physicians. These projects included skills-transfer education, cost-recovery models, research initiatives, and the creation of a network of eye care facilities, all aimed at reducing blindness.

Service Delivery

• Treatments Provided: 90,58,362 individuals received eye treatments.
• Surgeries Performed: 5,57,284 surgeries were conducted.
• Cornea Obtained and Transplanted: A total of 14,338 corneas were obtained and successfully transplanted.

Academic & Training

• MD Ophthalmology/Fellowship/Optometry/Ophthalmic Assistant (OA): 790 professionals were trained in these specialized fields.
• Allied Health/Medical Students: 11,846 students received training.
• Community Health Volunteers: 11,613 community health volunteers were trained to extend eye care services at the grassroots level.

Research

• Research and Development Projects: 274 research and development projects were completed.
• Papers Published: 289 research papers were published, contributing to the global body of knowledge in ophthalmology.

Intraocular Lens (IOL) Manufacturing

• IOL Production: 68,60,172 intraocular lenses were produced, supporting affordable cataract surgeries worldwide.

Here’s a summary of the key statistics and achievements:

1. Eye Treatments: Over 90,58,362 individuals have received eye treatments under TIO's initiatives.

2. Eye Surgeries: A total of 5,57,284 eye surgeries have been conducted.

3. Lens Production: TIO has produced 68,60,172 intraocular lenses, contributing significantly to affordable cataract surgeries worldwide.

4. Corneal Transplants: There have been 14,338 corneal transplants, helping to restore sight to individuals suffering from corneal blindness.

5. Trainees: The institute has trained 24,249 individuals, empowering them with skills in eye care.

6. Research: TIO has conducted 289 research projects, furthering knowledge and innovations in ophthalmology.

Educational Programs Offered by TIO

TIO offers a variety of educational programs designed to cater to different levels of expertise in the field of ophthalmology. The programs include:

• Diploma in Ophthalmic Science (Affiliated with CTEVT):
  This program offers 40 seats and provides comprehensive training for those looking to enter the field of ophthalmology as Ophthalmic Assistants.

• Master of Optometry (M Optom) (Affiliated with Pokhara University):
  This advanced program offers 7 seats and is designed for individuals seeking a deeper understanding and expertise in optometry.

TIO’s academic courses are affiliated with the National Academy of Medical Science (NAMS) and the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT). The institute prides itself on offering highly researched study modules, taught by dedicated professionals in well-equipped and conducive learning environments.

Conclusion

The Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology is not just a healthcare provider but a beacon of hope for thousands who suffer from visual impairments. With its comprehensive approach that includes treatment, research, education, and outreach, TIO continues to make a profound impact in the field of ophthalmology, both in Nepal and internationally. Its commitment to excellence in eye care and education ensures that it remains a leader in preventing and controlling blindness, providing quality care, and training the next generation of eye care professionals.