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NAME OF THE INSTITUTE
Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya (SSDN), Guwahati (Assam)
STIPEND
- Type: Paid Training (Candidate-funded)
- Estimated Fees:
- Short-term SICS: ₹25,000
- Short-term Phaco: ₹40,000
- Note: Fees are subject to institutional updates; candidates are advised to verify current rates. If applied through the ORBIS program, training may be available at no cost.
DURATION
1 Month (4 Weeks)
HONEST REVIEW
- Curriculum Structure: The first week is dedicated to dry-lab and wet-lab orientation. Surgical OT postings commence only after the designated trainer clears the candidate’s performance in the lab.
- Surgical Volume: The program provides a structured allocation of 20 cases for SICS and 20 cases for Phacoemulsification over the one-month period.
- Daily Workflow:
- Mornings: Mandatory academic sessions at 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM, followed by surgical observation in the OT.
- Afternoons: Hands-on surgical sessions. The standard allocation is one case per OT session, though proficient trainees may occasionally be granted additional cases toward the end of the list.
- Evenings: Trainees are responsible for their own case selection and comprehensive pre-operative workups for the following day’s patients before being relieved.
- Training Prerequisites: Unlike many intensive Phaco programs, SSDN does not mandate a minimum prior SICS count for the Phaco track. This allows candidates to transition directly from SICS training to Phaco training within the same institutional ecosystem.
- Schedule: Operative training runs from Monday to Saturday, with Sundays designated as off-days.
PERSONAL OPINION
This is an excellent “starter” program for post-graduates or junior consultants who need a structured, low-stress introduction to independent surgery. The inclusion of a mandatory wet-lab week ensures safety and builds muscle memory before touching live tissue. It is particularly cost-effective and highly recommended for those who can secure a spot via the ORBIS fellowship track.
