China

Through the EuroEyes clinics in China, we were able to connect with local charitable organizations, which led to an invitation to Gannan in the highlands near the Tibetan border. Here was a large hospital with only 3 young doctors to serve both the Eye Department and the Ear Department. There had been an older experienced ophthalmologist, but he had left without training the staff in the many laser devices and surgical techniques for eye treatments.

We therefore felt it necessary to undertake training in the use of argon laser for diabetes treatment and YAG laser for after-cataract treatment, and we trained the doctors in surgery and follow-up examinations. The most experienced doctor was later sent, at our expense, for further surgical training at EuroEyes’ Chinese partner clinic.

Gannan is at an altitude of over 3000 meters, so staying here also causes altitude sickness. Diamox (carbonic anhydrase inhibitor) has to be taken to relieve the worst symptoms, but between operations several of our doctors had to lie down with oxygen bags for some time before the next operation could be performed.