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NAME OF THE INSTITUTE
Sankara Eye Hospital, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
STIPEND & FEES
- Monthly Remuneration: ₹40,000
- Admission Fee: None.
- Caution Deposit: ₹80,000 (Equivalent to 2 months’ stipend).
- Deduction Schedule: ₹40k in the 1st month, then ₹20k each in the 2nd and 3rd months.
- Refund: Returned in full upon successful completion of the 2-year tenure.
DURATION
24 Months (2 Years)
(Split: 6 Months General Ophthalmology + 18 Months Paediatric Specialty)
HONEST REVIEW
- Selection & Intake: One fellow is inducted every 6 months via a competitive entrance exam and interview. The program concludes with a mandatory exit examination.
- General Ophthalmology Phase (First 6 Months):
- Fellows manage general OPD and start high-volume SICS training.
- This phase includes the intensive “Weekly Call” rotation: 12-hour night shifts (8 PM – 8 AM) for seven consecutive days, with recovery days in between.
- Paediatric Specialty Phase:
- Paediatric Cataract: A major highlight of this center. Unlike many other fellowships, Sankara Bengaluru offers a higher volume of paediatric cataracts, including independent cases on “free” (charitable) patients towards the end of the term.
- Strabismus (Squint): While the volume is noted to be slightly lower than at some other dedicated squint clinics, fellows graduate with the ability to perform simple squints independently and participate in steps for complex cases.
- Cataract Training (Adult):
- Phacoemulsification: Intensive training is provided in the final 6 months. Fellows can expect approximately 100 Phaco cases, potentially including advanced cataracts based on skill.
- Note: All surgeries are performed under anesthesia; no topical phaco is taught. Complication management (anterior vitrectomy, etc.) is integrated into the SICS training.
- Limitations: There is no ROP (Retinopathy of Prematurity) exposure in this specific track. Training is strictly focused on anterior segment paediatric surgery and strabismus.
- Work Culture & Duties:
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Sundays: Mandatory Sunday OPD duties (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM) occur roughly once every two months.
PERSONAL OPINION
Sankara Bengaluru is an excellent choice for those who want to become expert paediatric cataract surgeons. While many programs treat paediatric cataracts as rare “bonus” cases, the volume here is a significant career advantage. It is also ideal for someone who wants to maintain a high level of adult Phaco proficiency (100+ cases) while specializing in paediatrics. However, if ROP screening is a priority for your future practice, you will need a separate short-term observership elsewhere.
