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NAME OF THE INSTITUTE
PBMA’s H. V. Desai Eye Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra
(A renowned tertiary eye care center in Western India, recognized by the NPCB and approved for DNB/DO training.)
STIPEND
- Monthly Remuneration: ₹30,000
- Financial Policy: Competitive for a 1.5-year track in Pune; reflects the fellow’s role in managing high-volume charitable and specialty clinics.
DURATION
18 Months (1.5 Years)
HONEST REVIEW
- Intake & Selection: Two fellows are typically taken per session. Selection is based on a personal interview (usually held in January and July).
- Mentorship: Training is guided by an experienced glaucoma team, notably Dr. Vidya Chelerkar and Dr. Kalyani V.K.S. The department is described as “cool” and supportive.
- Surgical Hands-on (The “Glaucoma” Track):
- First 6 Months: Focus is on foundational anterior segment surgery. Fellows perform mostly SICS (approximately 3 cases per OT session, twice a week).
- Months 6–12: Trabeculectomy hands-on begins.
- Last 6 Months: Advanced training including Phacoemulsification and Phaco-Trab (combined cases).
- Volume: Fellows can expect to perform roughly 40 combined Trab cases by the end of their tenure.
- Advanced Procedures: A significant highlight is the exposure to MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) and GATT in the final six months, with opportunities for hands-on in selected cases.
- Clinical & Laser Exposure: High patient load ensures excellent diagnostic exposure. Fellows get extensive hands-on for Gonioscopy, HFA/OCT interpretation, and lasers (YAG PI, SLT/ALT).
- Work Culture & Duties:
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Relatively balanced and “not hectic”).
- Duties: * Evening Rounds: 2–3 times a month.
- Camp Duties: 5–6 times a month (Specialty referral screening).
- Night Calls: Zero.
- Academics: Structured learning with departmental classes and case discussions.
PERSONAL OPINION
The Glaucoma fellowship at HV Desai is a “Technology-Forward” program. Unlike many charitable centers that stick only to traditional Trabeculectomies, the inclusion of MIGS and GATT hands-on makes it very relevant for modern practice. It offers a great work-life balance with no night duties, making it one of the most sustainable 18-month fellowships in India. It is ideal for someone who wants a solid surgical foundation in both Phaco and Glaucoma while staying updated on the latest surgical trends.
