Paediatric Eye Surgery

Eye unit was established in 2005, under the Vision 2020 Program of WHO (Elimination of Avoidable Blindness in 2020) by appointing a Paediatric Ophthalmologist to Lady Ridgeway Hospital.

An NGO called “SIGHT SAVOURS INTERNATIONAL” donated 15 million Sri Lankan Rupees to build a Two story eye unit, but the decision of the Director and consultants of LRH with the donation of another 5 million rupees arranged by Hon Minister of Health Mr. Nimal Siripala De Silva, foundation stone was laid on to establish this building on 2005. Ministry of  health  too provided the equipment for further establishment of the eye unit. The equipment needed for the unit was by generous contribution of Organizations (Emirates Airlines, Dialog, Save the Sight, Kandy ,Orange Electricals, KIK Electricals, Vision care optical ,OGA Visaka college ,COLOMBO and many philanthropists of our country).

We manage wide range of paediatric eye conditions including rare but very important eye conditions in children. This is the only place in Sri Lanka where Retinoblastoma (children’s eye cancer) is being managed along with the paediatric oncology services at the Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama. This unit serves the country as the main center in prevention and treatment of childhood blindness.

We see more than 11,000 new patients per year. We receive referrals from the OPD, wards and the clinics of the hospital. We also get referrals from eye surgeons from all over the island, paediatricians from hospitals where there are no eye surgeons. More than 15,000 repeat visits are also seen every year in this unit.

We have clinics from Monday to Saturday and see more than 100 kids daily. We also have a dedicated theatre and three days per week operating time.