In a pioneering development, the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Medical Trust has been awarded a Patent by the Patent Office, Government of India, for an invention entitled IRIS Retractor for the Management of Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS). The Patent, valid for 20 years, has been recently granted under the Patent Acts, 1970. The unique invention, which enables management of the Iris during cataract surgery, was developed by Dr. Mallikarjun Heralgi, Consultant, Cornea and Refractive Surgery at Sankara Eye Hospital, Shivamogga.

Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery is characterized by iris fluttering, iris prolapse towards the incisions, and a progressive pupillary constriction leading to high rates of complications and also it can be used in small pupil.

Dr. R.V. Ramani, Founder and Managing Trustee, Sankara Eye Foundation, India, said: “We are delighted that the Dr. Mallikarjun Heralgi has been awarded the Patent for his exemplary work. The patent is a recognition of the world-class research that Sankara Eye Hospital and its medical experts carry out. It is an exclusive piece of work by Dr. Mallikarjun Heralgi and reflects his vast and rich experience in the domain of cataract surgery. Our institution always supports excellence and we welcome innovative research and contribution to the larger cause of enhancing quality of life.”

Commenting on the patent and the invention, Dr. Mallikarjun Heralgi, Consultant, Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Sankara Eye Hospital, Shivamogga said: “This patent is testament to the distinctive research undertaken in the field of cataract surgery. It serves as a great motivator to carry out further work on IFIS and devices that help manage the cataract. The Initial results are promising, we need to study on large scale. The device is an advanced tool to tackle IFIS and has the capability to improve lives and we hope to help more people who are facing cataract-related problems.”

The research will prove useful to patients both in urban and rural areas as there are a large number of them who experience cataract problems. With India having a high number of patients requiring cataract surgeries, the device has come at the right time to help the patients experience a successful outcome.