Dr. Anil B Das
President
Dr. Ciju Joseph
Secretary
Dr. Praveen Muraly
Treasurer
Dr. John Davis Akkara
Joint Secretary
Dr. R. R. Varma
Advisor
COC Executive Committee (2023-2025)
Dr. Anil B Das
President
Dr. Ciju Joseph
Secretary
Dr. Praveen Muraly
Treasurer
Dr. Thomas Cherian
Vice President
Dr. Neena R
Chairperson.Sci.Comm.
Executive Committee Members
Dr. Lakshmi J
Dr. Suchitra R
Dr. Kala Baby Thottam
Dr. Basil George
Dr. Umesh Krishna
Immediate Past President
Immediate Past Secretary & Representative to KSOS
Dr. S. Sasikumar
Dr. Thomas Arun Varghese
JANUARY 2025
AI Powered Technology for Blind (Jan 4th at Amrita Hospital)
National Federation for the Blind, Ophthalmology department of Amrita Hospital and Sakshama Kerala Organized the “Inauguration of Amrita AI Powered Technology for Blind & Distribution of Smart Vision Glasses” on Jan 4th at Amriteswari Hall, Amrita Hospital.
IGNITE CME (Jan 4th, 5th at Hotel Monsoon Empress)
- Ignite, the Annual Conference of Kerala Uveitis Interest Group Under the Aegis of Uveitis Society of India, KSOS and COC and Spearheaded by Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan, was held on January 4th and 5th at Hotel Monsoon Empress.
- Itwas Attended by 140 Delegates.
- Dr. Alexander was Honoured as Senior Ophthalmologist (as part of KSOS Presidential Initiative) for his Contributions.
- Along with the Scientific Program on Uveitis, this was also Accompanied by the Launch of the Childhood Uveitis Blindness Support(CUBS) Trust by Mr Philip Mathew and Mr Kunchacko Boban.
Dr. Noel Moniz CME
- The Annual Dr. Noel Moniz Memorial Lecture and CME of Cochin Ophthalmic Club was Conducted on 19th January 2025 at IMA House. Attended by Over 120 Delegates. The Highlights were
1) Dr. RR Varma Delivered the Prestigious Dr. Noel Moniz Lecture: “Arewe Treating Patients ? Or are we Treating Diseases ?”
2) A Novel Learning Experience in the Form of Mentor-Mentee Competition with Cash Awards.
3) A Fun Quizzing Session with Attractive Prizes
4) Honoring Doyens of Ophthalmology – Dr. EJ John was Honored
5) Sponsored talk on Myocare Lenses in Myopia Control
- First Prize in Fun Fundaz Quiz was won by Team AMALA:
Dr. Rahul and Dr. Elsa - For the Mentor Mentee competition:First Prize in Anterior Segment Adventures was won by Dr. Aryalakshmi and
Dr. Sandhya N - First Prize in Posterior Segment Pitfalls went to Dr. Nikitha Ann and Dr. Praveen Muraly
- First prize in Ophthalmic Odysseys was won by Dr. Samvedya and Dr. Shebin S
NetraKumbh
A 12 Member Contingent from Kerala Actively Participated in the NetraKumbh Camp at the Kumbh Mela.
- Dr. Radhakrishnan
- Dr. Gopal S Pillai
- Dr. Anil Radhakrishnan
- Dr. Merine Paul
- Dr. Vinodkumar
- Dr. Soumya PP
- Dr. Shyla Shankunni
- Dr. Rani Balamurali
- Dr. Nisha S Pillai
- Dr. Anish Madhavan
- Dr. Jayaram VR
- Dr. Ashok Natarajan
Other Outstation Talks by COC members
Dr. MV Francis was faculty at CREST Neuro conclave 2025 at Delhi. He was also Faculty at the 18th Annual HCOP(Headache Cooperative of the Pacific) Winter Conference in Los Angeles.
There was good Representation by Cochin Ophthalmic Club and KSOS at the Lenticule Congress 2.0 at Bangalore on Jan 17th to 19th.
DECEMBER 2024
COC Monthly Meeting
Monthly Meeting of COC was held on Thursday, 19th December 2024 at Marina One with the scientific program being the COC winning presentations at KSOS Drishti 2024.
Scientific Program was preceded by the routine executive meeting and followed by Christmas carols, celebration, dinner and fellowship.
Talks included
- Dr Natasha Radhakrishnan – Dr K C Sankara Menon free paper: Is there an ROP epidemic? Results from a decade of ROP experience at a tertiary care center in Kerala
- Dr Sugaranjini G – Dr Noel Moniz Anterior Segment free paper: Looking beyond Schirmer’s test in identifying Sjogrens Syndrome
- Dr Neena R – Dr KGR Nair free paper for Evaluation of functional & cosmetic outcome after surgical correction of monocular elevation defect.
- TACO Best Poster : Dr Lekha T: Is this ROP? Look again
Thanima by IMA
COC presented Cochin Kannukadi Theatres skit in Cochin IMA Thanima program on Dec 8th 2024.
Awards for COC members
Dr Elizabeth Joseph was unanimously elected as National Vice President of Strabismus and pediatric Ophthalmology Society of India (SPOSI) and is in line to take over as National President of SPOSI in 2027.
- In Keracon Conference of Cornea Society of India, Dr Anil Radhakrishan’s and Dr Sugaranjini’s papers got selected out of 130 free pacers to present in the Best of Best (best 12 papers) session. Dr Anil Radhakrishnan won third place overall.
Dr John Davis Akkara won second place in slitlamp imaging in AIOS Photography Competition 2024
NOVEMBER 2024
Musical Concert for Diabetes Week
Dr Biju Raju conducted a musical concert on Nov 9th, 2024. This is one of the events he plans for the diabetes week. The venue for the concert, “Dr. Biju Raju LIVE with Exodus the Band” will be at ‘On Stage’, Chakkaraparamb (near McDonald’s). This year’s WDD theme is Diabetes and wellness, and he will be promoting wellness through his exceptional music.
He would also want to make this concert more meaningful by contributing the funds that he raises from ticket sales to COC Blindness Relief Endowment Fund.
YOSI Innovations in Ophthalmology Webinar – EurEYEka
Dr John Davis Akkara from Westend and Chaithanya Eye Hospital Kochi and Dr Suven Bhattacharya from Kolkata were speakers for the first YOSI Innovations in Ophthalmology Webinar – EurEYEka ! He spoke on “EYEnnovator : My journey so far as an Ophthalmic Innovator” on Novmeber 13th 7:00pm
KSOS Drishti 2024 at Kochi(Nov 29, 30, Dec 1)
Annual Conference of KSOS, Drishti 2024 was held on Nov 29, 30, Dec 1 at Hotel Le Meridien, Kochi by IMOC with COC and KOA. COC members had very active roles in the LOC and also the faculty and participation in academic and cultural events equally. Cochin Kannukadi Theatres presented an excellent skit which was well appreciated by all. Kochi Bros participated in OPL. Dr Rajesh Chells led Team Jayan in first time ever YOLK GameShow.
COC won several academic awards as well, listed below.
Awards for COC members
KSOS Drishti 2024 Awards:
Dr Natasha Radhakrishan – Dr K C Sankara Menon free paper: Is there an ROP epidemic? Results from a decade of ROP experience at a tertiary care center in Kerala
Dr Sugaranjini G – Dr Noel Moniz Anterior Segment free paper: Looking beyond Schirmer’s test in identifying Sjogrens Syndrome
- Dr Neena R – Dr KGR Nair free paper for EVALUATION OF FUNCTIONAL & COSMETIC OUTCOME AFTER SURGICAL CORRECTION OF MONOCULAR ELEVATION DEFECT
- TACO Best Poster : Dr Lekha T, Giridhar Eye Instiute : Is this ROP? Look again.
- Dr Rajesh Chells and team(Team Jayan) won 1st prize for the Yolk Mollywood Game show
OPL Best Promotional video – Kochi Bros (Dr Mahesh, Dr Praveen, Dr Vanasree and Dr John Davis)
- Dr Vanasree won the best scientific video in OPL – runner up ( judges choice)
Dr Anju Kuriakose – runner up in KSOS Drishti Photography competition 2024 Posterior segment
COC won Best Club (Metro) Award
Other Awards for COC members
Dr Raniya KP, PG student at Giridhar Eye Institute was the winner of the KSOS COC PG Gold Medal exam 2024.
Dr John Davis Akkara was awarded Innovation Award by IMA Kerala in IMA State Conference in Thrissur on Nov 9th
Dr John Davis Akkara was awarded the “Prof Udhaba Charan Behera and Prof Gunasagar Das Innovation Oration” for the Odisha State Ophthalmological Society Conference on November 10th 2024
Eye Camps
| Camps Conducted | No of Camps | No of Patients Screened | No of Cataract Surgeries |
| Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences | 8 | 3020 | 250 |
| Giridhar Eye Institute | 12 | 1213 | 87 |
OCTOBER 2024
Monthly Meeting of COC(Oct 23rd)
Monthly meeting of COC was held on October 23rd, 7:30pm at Hotel Olive Downtown. After the Executive Proceedings, there was a PG case Presentation on IIH by Dr Greeshma. Dr. Rohit Shetty from Narayana Nethralaya delivered a very inspiring talk on Biology, Discovery and Clinician – about various cutting edge translational research which his team has been bringing to clinical use. Dr Thomas Arun Varghese and Dr Revati Ramesh chaired the session.
World Sight Day Program – Chaithanya Eye Hospital
As part of the world sight day, Chaithanya Eye Hospital conducted an awareness program on Kochi Water Metro – “Meet the Doc” with Dr Rahul Menon on October 10th.
- https://www.instagram.com/p/DA50hZgvSmv/igsh=MTZucnpibmhqN3h4eQ
- https://www.facebook.com/share/JBrgtXXLGDPW1d7L/
World Sight Day Program – Dr Tony Fernandez Eye Hospital
As part of the world sight day, Dr Tony Fernandes eye hospital conducted a reel competition on the topic “Love your eyes “. We got around 16 entries and the first 3 winners have been selected. We also conducted a vision, iop and retina camp at St Xavier ‘s college aluva along with the NSS unit of St Xavier ‘s college. The event was inaugurated by Padmasree Dr Tony Fernandez and an awareness talk was given by Dr Karthika Mohandas
Awards and Achievements for COC Members(September 2024)
There was good participation from the Cochin Ophthalmic Club at various CMEs and conferences.
Dr Anju Kuriakose was awarded the “Women International Hero Award” by the Women Ophthalmologists Society India at the WOS Annual Conference held in Delhi on October 4th to 6th, 2024.
Dr John Davis Akkara won Third Prize in Innovation Hackathon Session of Jharkhand Ophthalmic SOciety(JHOS) Midterm Conference on 13th October 2024.
Dr Greeshma Merin Sebastian was awarded 1st prize in Case Presentation titled “A case of Idiopathic intracranial hypertension presenting with unilateral disc edema”in 6th Annual Conference of Indian Neuro Ophthalmology Society in Chennai on September 21st.
Dr MV Francis presented at the Indian Association of Neurology Conference at Visakhapatnam on Oct 17th-20th
Dr MV Francis also published a book chapter on Lasmiditan: Another Unique Acute Migraine Abortive.
Dr Natasha Radhakrishnan is presenting “Visual acuity results and clinical.profile of Paediatric non infectious uveitis in a tertiary care centre in South India” at EVRS Budapest on Nov 17th.
- Dr Biju Raju is conducting a musical concert on Nov 9th, 2024. This is one of the events he plans for the diabetes week. The venue for the concert, “Dr. Biju Raju LIVE with Exodus the Band” will be at ‘On Stage’, Chakkaraparamb (near McDonald’s). This year’s WDD theme is Diabetes and wellness, and he will be promoting wellness through his exceptional music.
He would also want to make this concert more meaningful by contributing the funds that he raises from ticket sales to COC Blindness Relief Endowment Fund.
Dr Deepa from GMC Kalamassery won second prize in reel contest by Dr Tony Fernandez Eye Hospital
Aster Volunteers “Clear Sight” Project conducted 15 screening camps across 10 schools and 1053 students underwent eye checkups of whom 89 students were referred for further treatment.
Chaithanya Eye Hospital conducted Happening Hours: School Screening at Mount Tabor School Kalamasseri.
Eye Camps
| Camps Conducted | No of Camps | No of Patients Screened | No of Cataract Surgeries |
| Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences | 5 | 2650 | 43 |
| Giridhar Eye Institute | 9 | 823 | 65 |
| Tony’s Eye Hospital | 4 | 417 | 71 |
SEPTEMBER 2024
Monthly Meeting of COC(Sep 12th)
Monthly meeting of COC was held on Sep 12th 7:30pm at Hotel Holiday Inn.
After the executive proceedings, Sangeeth Mahal Musicals and Roland gifted a musical instrument to Mr Josey after being inspired by the COC Blindness Relief Endowment Fund. Taking inspiration from our BREF activity at August Ophthalmica, Sangeeth Mahal together with Roland wanted to donate a Musical Keyboard to a blind Keyboard artist. We Identified Mr Josey as the apt person for the gift. He is a blind Keyboard artist from Wayand and a Cancer survivor.
The Roland BK5 Keyboard was handed over to him at the September Monthly meeting.
Scientific program included talks on Synergy Toric PCIOl by Dr. Saikumar and Eyehance Toric by Dr. Mathew Kurian.
Meeting was followed by OnaSadhya.
IMA Meeting and Scientific Session(Sep 25)
IMA conducted a scientific session with doctors from Giridhar Eye Institute on Seo 25th at IMA House Kochi. Topics included Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension by Dr Neena R and Ophthalmic Manifestations of Facial Nerve palsy by Dr Marian Pauly. Dr Giridhar moderated the session.
Awards and Achievements for COC Members(September 2024)
There was good participation from Cochin Ophthalmic Club at various CMEs and conferences.
Dr. John Davis Akkara was awarded the “Prof Udhaba Charan Behera and Prof Gunasagar Das Innovation Oration Award for the upcoming Odisha State Ophthalmological Society Conference.
Dr Sandhya Nair presented video at the ESCRS 2024 Congress held in Barcelona held from 6th to 10th September.
Release of eye donation awareness movie ‘ mayatha marivillu’ in you tube. A good part of the movie was shot in Amrita hospital. Sakshama – an organization working for the disabled and Ophthalmology department of Amrita hospital was actively involved in this endeavor. Dr Gopal had a cameo role in this movie
Dr Anil Radhakrishnan volunteered as the president – Ernakulam district of Sakshama. They organised a poetry competition.
Dr Aswathi Neena Satish won 1st Prize for quiz at Annual Conference of Oculoplastics Association of India held in Jaipur on Sep 29th.
There was good participation by COC at the 6th Annual Conference of Indian Neuro-Ophthalmological Society in Sankara Nethralaya Chennai. Dr Ciju Joseph, Dr Thomas Arun Varghese, Dr Greeshma were some who participated. Dr Greeshma, PG student in Dr Tony Fernandez Eye Hospital won 1st prize for case presentation under the mentorship of Dr Revathi.
Dr Anagha under mentorship of Dr Namitha participated in KSOS Virtual PG Classroom. https://youtube.com/live/uVYBEu2gtDE?feature=share
Dr Anju Kuriakose won Second Prize in YOSI “Travel in Motion” reels contest on September 27th, 2024.
Dr John Davis Akkara, Glaucoma specialist, won second prize in Glaucoma Pitch Innovation Competition in GlaucoCherry, Annual Conference of Glaucoma Society of India in Pondicherry on Sep 29th.
Eye Camps
| Camps Conducted | No of Camps | No of Patients Screened | No of Cataract Surgeries |
| Giridhar Eye Institute | |||
| Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences | 2 | 1520 | 23 |
| Tony’s Eye Hospital | 3 | 357 | 24 |
AUGUST 2024
Awards for COC Members
- There was good participation from Cochin Ophthalmic Club at Nethram CME on 4th August, 2024.
- Dr. Samvedya, Oculoplasty fellow, Giridhar Eye Institute won first prize in Nethram FIlm Festival.
- Dr. Khalid, postgraduate student at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, won first prize in PG case presentation.
- Dr. Anagha, postgraduate student at Giridhar Eye Institute, won second prize in PG case presentation.
- Dr. John Davis Akkara won Cross-Eyed Ophthalmic Crossword of AIOS Times.
JULY 2024
COC Monthly Meeting (11th July)
- Monthly Meeting of Cochin Ophthalmic Club was conducted on Tuesday, 11th July, 2024 at IMA House, Cochin. After the formal agenda, Padmashree Prof Dr. JS Titiyal spoke on “Phacoemulsification in Challenging Situations” & “Novel Nano silver ion based self preservative technology” and Dr. Vinay Pilai moderated the session.
- Meeting was followed by fellowship and dinner.
COC Members at WCPOS Kuala Lumpur
- Dr. Neena R, Scientific Committee Chairman of Cochin Ophthalmic Club, participated in World Congress of Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus 2024 at Kuala Lumpur on 11th to 13th July. She won First prize in Free Paper(Adult Ophthalmology).
- Dr. Neena R receiving the best paper award.
There was good representation of pediatric ophthalmologists from Kerala at the conference.
JUNE 2024
- Women Ophthalmologists Society launched Kerala Chapter of Women Ophthalmologists on 2nd June 2024 with a CME on June 2nd in Hotel Monsoon Empress. A few COC members were speakers in the CME along with leading women ophthalmologists from all over Kerala.
Eerppam CME on Dry Eye (9th June)
- Giridhar Eye Institute conducted Eerppam – Des-misti-fying dry eye CME on 9th June in Hotel Abad Plaza with a pre conference workshop on June 8th as well. It was well attended and had several esteemed national speakers.
Dr. Lalitha Susan Thomas was honored as senior ophthalmologist under the KSOS President’s Initiative.
COC Monthly Meeting (11thJune)
- Monthly Meeting of Cochin Ophthalmic Club was conducted on Tuesday, 11thJune, 2024 at Hotel Monsoon Empress. After the formal agenda, Dr. Gopal Pillai spoke on “The Science of Angiopoeitin-2 Inhibition” and Dr. Mahesh Gopalakrishnan spoke on “Next generation therapy in managing nAMD”
- Meeting was followed by fellowship and dinner.
- Kaazhcha 2024 was held by Dr. Tony Fernandez Eye Hospital on June 23rd, 2024 at Hotel Monsoon empress Kochi.
- The CME was inaugurated by Dr. Thomas Cherian president KSOS and was presided by Padmasree Dr. Tony Fernandez. Titled Clinical pearls for Ophthalmologists the CME had eminent speakers from all over the country who are stalwarts in their respective Sub specialties.
- Dr. T. P. Ittyerah sir was honored as a senior ophthalmologist.
- Dr. Anju Mary Thomas – Little Flower hospital
- Dr. Anjushree – Giridhar eye Institute
- Dr. Anusree A. M – Giridhar eye Institute
COC Participation in other CMEs and Conferences
- COC members participated as faculty at CMEs and conferences.
Dr. Raniya PG from Giridhar Eye Institute presented in APACRS Chengu, China (May 30 to June1) with a travel grant.
- WOS Kerala Chapter Inauguration and CME had several COC faculty including Dr. Balamani, Dr. Kala B Thottam, Dr. Dhanya Varma, Dr. Gopal Pillai, Dr. Biju Raju, Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan, Dr. Vanashree Nair, Dr. Sanitha Sathyan, Dr. Sujithra H, Dr. Hilda Nixon
MAY 2024
KSOS Family Get Together
- COC members participated in KSOS Family Get together and Cochin Kannukadi Theatres(CKT) staged a Kathaprasangam which was well received.
- Congratulations to Dr. Dhanya, Dr. Sony, Dr. Arun, Dr. Ciju, Dr. Gopal and Dr. RR Varma for the spectacular performance.
Real World Ophthalmology CME by Dr. NSD Raju’s Eye Hospital (19th May)
- The CME “Real world Ophthalmology” was conducted by Dr NSD Rajus eye hospital at IMA House cochin under the Aegis of KSOS and COC on 19/05/2024 with an eclectic selection of anterior segment, retina and neuro-ophthalmology presentations. Senior ophthalmologists honored at the CME were Dr Santha PR and Dr Lt. Col. Sudhakar CP. During the Inauguration event of the CME a cheque of Rs 50,001/- was donated by the organizers Dr NSD Raju and Dr Biju Raju to the Blindness endowment fund.
There was also a section dedicated to non Ophthalmic topics of particular interest to ophthalmologists. On PBO, ‘Passions Beyond Ophthalmology’. Jacob spoke on cycling; Kala on dancing; Vinod on wild life photography. John, did a masterly session on newer gadget/e-technologies. Dr. Ashley spoke on ‘Alternate Professions for An Ophthalmologist’ and Asok Natarajan on his lawyers’ career. Sanitha about her unique theatre, Āla. All talks were wonderful, novel, and informative.
Awards and Publications
COC Member Dr Rameez Hussain, currently practicing in Mauritius (Ex-GEI) won the International Scholar Award from American Academy of Ophthalmology(AAO)
- Dr. Lekha T’s case (GEI) on Boundless tale of White Dot Syndrome in a Child was selected as top 3 for publication of USI newsletter.
- Monthly Meeting of Cochin Ophthalmic Club was conducted on Tuesday, 21st May, 2024 at Hotel Grand.
- Following the formal agenda, Dr Gopal Pillai spoke on Widefield Imaging in Retina – new Insights.
- Dr. Mohan Rajan from Chennai spoke on 3D Visualization – New Paradigm Shift in Eye Surgery and showed 3D surgical videos recorded with their 3D microscope. Everyone wore the 3D glasses, sat in the central rows and the videos were played. Dr. Giridhar, Dr. Thomas Cherian, Dr. Mathew Kurian and Dr. Sony George moderated an excited discussion on the topics. This was followed by fellowship and dinner.
- Anaglyph 3D photo(Red Blue glasses) – Dr. Mohan Rajan and Dr. Gopal Pillai being presented mementos
- COC members participated as faculty at CMEs and conferences.
- Amala Institute of Medical Sciences conducted EyeDeas SkillWheel on 26th May in Thrissur.
- Dr. Reesha, Dr. Mahesh G, Dr. Divya Balakrishnan and Dr. John Davis Akkara were some of the faculty.
- Dr. Raniya PG Giridhar Eye Institute presented in APACRS Chengdu, China (May 30 to June1) with travel grant
APRIL 2024
COC Monthly Meeting (23rd April)
- Monthly Meeting of Cochin Ophthalmic Club was conducted on Tuesday, 23rd April, 2024 at Hotel Monsoon Empress. Following the formal agenda, Dr. Praveen and Dr. Jacob spoke in memoriam of Dr. Gopal of Eye Foundation who had passed away.
Dr. Quresh Maskati was the national speaker who spoke on Restoring Ocular Surface Homeostasis – A key strategy to improve patient satisfaction. His talk was interesting, informative, and full of wit as always.
- Dr. Quresh Maskati also released Quarterly Magazine of COC, named “COCtales”
The second talk was by Dr. Aneeta Jabbar who spoke on the Exacerbation of screen fatigue during summer.
The meeting was followed by dinner.
COCtales – Quarterly Magazine of COC published
Dr. Quresh Maskati released the Quarterly Magazine of COC, named “COCtales”
COCtales Jan Feb Mar 2024 : https://heyzine.com/flip-book/3d9e03bd9c.html
COC received Ranbhoomi IMA Sports Trophy in IMA Meeting
Indian Institute of Healthcare Communication Master Trainer Certificate
- Dr. Suchitra completed the Master Trainer in Healthcare communication Course by Kerala State IMA and IIHC(Indian Institute of Healthcare Communication) Delhi.
- It was a 3 day intensive Training Program on Healthcare communication for selected doctors from Kerala IMA.
COC at Indo-Nepal Friendship CME at Kathmandu (April 13, 14)
- Dr. John Davis Akkara and Dr. Anju Kuriakose were awarded the “NOS-NNJS Himalayan Encouragement Award” at Indo-Nepal Friendship CME by Nepal Ophthalmic Society and Nepal Nethrajyoti Sangh in Kathmandu.
- Dr. John presented on “Foldable FunDascope” and “Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery in 3D printed and augmented reality”.
- Dr. Anju Kuriakose presented on “Diabetic Retinopathy – LASER and Intravitreal injections” and “Kitchen Ophthalmic Surgeon”
COC at Summer Spice 24, Annual CME of Palakkad Medical College
- COC Members at Summer Spice CME of Palakkad Society of Ophthalmic Surgeons.
MARCH 2024
- Dr John Davis Akkara with his startup “FunDaZone” won third place for “JohnDa’s Foldable FunDaScope” in the Startup Challenge 2024 held by the LV Prasad Eye Institute Bio-incubator in collaboration with AIOS in Hyderabad on March 1st and 2nd.
AIOS-ARC-COC “Retina for All” Meeting (Mar 3rd)
- Cochin Ophthalmic Club in conjunction with AIOC-ARC conducted a CME “Retina for All” on March 3rd at Hotel Monsoon Empress under the aegis of KSOS.
Faculty included Dr Prasahant Bawankule and several retina specialists from within Kerala. Several retina topics of interest to general ophthalmologists were discussed with good attendance from ophthalmologists and postgraduates.
Chaithanya Eye Institute Glaucoma CME “GlaucoPedia 2024” (Mar 10th)
- Chaithanya Eye Hospital conducted Glaucopedia the CME on Glaucoma under the aegis of KSOS and COC. Wide ranging topics and even the latest on AI were covered. They even had a Wet lab for glaucoma surgeries.
- Padmashree Dr. S. Tony Fernandes inaugurated the “Eye Bank portal” at the KSOS website.
- Dr. Augustine Mampilly sir was honored for being the inspiring senior ophthalmologist that he is. He inspired the younger generation of ophthalmologists with some anecdotes from his youth and advice on life and ophthalmology.
- The COC Glaucoma awareness walk was flagged to start by KSOS President
Dr. Thomas Cherian and the IMA Cochin President Dr. Haneesh Meerasa. We walked around a block at Kadavanthra and were able to inform the public about Glaucoma and the importance of screening for the same. This walk was mainly sponsored by Milmet of Sun Pharma. We also had participation of Abbvie pharmaceuticals.
COC Monthly Meeting (Mar 19th)
- The March monthly meeting of COC, was held on Mar 19th at Hotel Gokulam Park. The meeting was called to order by the President Dr Anil B Das. Secretary Dr Ciju Joseph gave a brief report of activities of previous month. The various awardees from COC in various conferences were appreciated.
This was followed by the Scientific Session – “Advancement in IOl Technology and Platform” sponsored by Alcon surgicals . Dr Sony George spoke on “Clareon – a better Platform” and Dr Sandhya N spoke on “Customizing Presbyopia Correcting IOLs” This was followed by dinner.
COC Glaucoma Week Programs(March 10-16)
Various other hospitals including Dr Tony Fernandez’s eye hospital, The Eye foundation, Little flower eye hospital, Renai Medicity and Government Medical college conducted Glaucoma awareness programmes. As part of Glaucoma Week 2024, Giridhar Eye Institute conducted a door-to-door screening program specifically tailored for bedridden individuals.
- Also Dr. Rosmy Varghese(who is a member of COC) won 1st in 100m, 2nd in 200m and 1st in Ladies relay under the banner of KGMOA.
- Dr. Sunil had won 2nd for Arm wrestling.
- Cochin Ophthalmic Club congratulates the winners and all the attendees for keeping our flag high.
COC at AIOC 2024, Kolkata(14th-17th of March)
Cochin Ophthalmic Club had a large delegation of faculty and participants in AIOC 2024. Many had Instruction Courses, Invites talks, Papers, Video and Posters. Many awards were won and honors received.
- Dr. Vanasree Nair won the best female presenter in “Difficult cataract and anterior segment surgeries: when the going gets tough.”
- Dr. Meena CK got the best presentation award in Women Ophthalmic Surgeons and Team Kerala Royals.
- Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan as mentor and Dr. Archana of Amritha institute bagged second prize along with Team “Gods own warriors” from Kerala under Teachers of tomorrow.
- Dr. John Davis Akkara Won Top 10 (consolation prize) in Think under the Apple tree, Top 16 in C S Reshmi Video session and IJO appreciation certificate for top 25 most cited articles (inset is actually a picture of the certificates he collected of last years awards at this years AIOC.
- Dr. Neelima Mathew won 2nd prize in The Young Researcher Award at AIOC Kolkata. Congratulations Dr Neelima
FEBRUARY 2024
Retina Interest Group Meeting (Feb 13)
The Kochi Retina Interest Group had a meeting at Crowne Plaza on 13th February with case presentations by retina fellows
Image Competition of Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology APAO 2024 (Bali)
- Dr. Anju Kuriakose, Retina & Uvea Specialist at Westend Eye Hospital & Chaithanya Eye Hospital – Tripunithura won overall runner-up of $250 in APAO 2024 International Conference Bali (Feb 22-25).
- Asia Pacific Ocular Imaging Society Competition in Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Congress.
- Retinal Montage Photograph titled “Luminous Lightning : Frosted Branch Angiitis illuminating the eye with its Mesmerizing retinal display”
- The February monthly meeting of COC, was held on Feb 22nd at Holiday Inn. The meeting was called to order by the President Dr. Anil B Das. Secretary Dr. Ciju Joseph gave a brief report of activities of previous month. The awardees from COC in various conferences were appreciated.
- This was followed by the Scientific Session. Dr. Vinay Pillai spoke on “Complete Dry Eye Management.”
- Dr. Anil Radhakrishnan and Dr. Sanjana P conducted a Panel Discussion on Perioperative Dry Eye Management. This was followed by dinner.
- Feb 8th meeting of Cochin Clinical Society, COC was represented by
Dr. Kalaimathy, Dr. Augustine Mampilly sir and Dr. Ciju Joseph. It was at the INHS Sanjeevani, where we also had a tour of a few ships and Navy officer training facilities which included a state of the art Bridge simulator for all geographic locations and weather conditions. The talks were good, with one case of particular interest to us – Hansen disease presenting as “insect bite of the eye lid” (lid edema and rash).
Women in Science and Vision 2024
Dr. Sruthi Chandra, who was a VR fellow at Giridhar Eye Institute was featured in Moorfield Eye Charity Website
https://moorfieldseyecharity.org.uk/impact-stories/women-in-science-and-vision-research-2023
AIOS-LVPEI Hackathon / Startup Challenge
- Dr. John Davis Akkara – Glaucoma, Cataract & Refractive Surgeon at Westend Eye Hospital – Kacheripady & Chaithanya Eye Institute – Palarivattom, was selected to the fully sponsored finals of the AIOS-LVPEI Hackathon & Startup Challenge after 2 rounds of presentations to AIOS jury and LVPEI Incubator jury. He is invited to the Bootcamp training and Grand Finale in Hyderabad on March 1stand 2nd, 2024.
COC at Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology – APAO 2024 (Bali, Indonesia)
- Cochin Ophthalmic Club was represented by Dr. John Davis Akkara and
Dr. Anju Kuriakose in APAO 2024 Congress in Bali, Indonesia. They presented posters and videos in the conference and Dr. Anju Kuriakose won the overall runner-up for photography competition. There was substantial representation from other parts of Kerala as well – Dr. Shishir Verghese, Dr. Rakhi Dcruz, Dr. Swapna Nair, Dr. Prithvi Chandrakanth.
JANUARY 2024
World Braille Day Webinar (Jan 4th)
- Cochin Ophthalmic Club conducted a Webinar on World Braille Day which falls on 4th January 2024 this year. We had an inspiring program from evening 7:30pm to 9:30pm.
- It is available on Cochin Ophthalmic Club YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKsDD_FkP3Y
- After COC President’s welcome address, and details about COC Blind Endowment Fund by Dr Joggy Joseph, the main program was from speakers from Aluva Blind School.
- Miss Aswini N Kini, a visually impaired student of class 9, spoke about the History of Braille and the story of its inventor Louis Braille. Subsequently, Mr Jaison, a visually impaired teacher from the Blind school spoke about the Blind School activities, and also his journey as an engineer who became visually impaired. Next was a very active Question & Answer Session involving Mr KJ Varghese, former President of the Kerala Federation for the Blind.
Next on the agenda was an Innovative and Informative presentation by Dr John Davis Akkara, the Joint Secretary of COC, on “Smartphone Apps for the Visually Impaired”
Dr. Ciju Joseph, Secretary of COC, concluded the webinar with a vote of thanks.
Dr. Noel Moniz Memorial CME (Jan 21st )
- Cochin Ophthalmic Club conducted the Annual Dr. Noel Moniz Memorial CME on Sunday, January 21st, 2024.
- There was very good participation from all over Kerala and a few delegates from Tamil Nadu as well.
The Noel Moniz Oration was by Dr. Philip Kuruvilla from Trivandrum.
The Scientific Session was prepared by COC Scientific Committee Chairman Dr. Neena R, and included a competition – “Great Challenges and Grand Victories” where participants were asked to present a short video of one of their biggest clinical challenges and how they overcame it.
There was also a PG oriented diagnostic workshop on reading of various ophthalmic test reports including HFA, OCT, A scan, Topography etc coordinated with the help of Dr. Thomas Kuriakose.
Dr. Naomi Vettath, senior ophthalmologist was honored during the inauguration under the KSOS President’s initiative.
Distinguished Ophthalmic Teacher of India Award
- Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan was awarded with an award of “Distinguished Ophthalmic Teacher of India” at RP Centre of Ophthalmic Sciences, AIIMS, New Delhi from the Federation of Ophthalmic Teachers at their seventh national meeting. She also received a publication excellence award from chancellor of Amrita Vishwapeet.
Publication of Myopia study
Dr. Elizabeth Joseph and Dr Neena R were part of a major Pan India study which was published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.
DECEMBER 2023
VRSI 2023 at Trivandrum (Dec 1st to 3rd)
Cochin Ophthalmic Club had a large representation at the annual conference of the VitreoRetina Society of India held at Trivandrum.
- Dr. Giridhar Anantharaman was awarded the Dr. Patnaik Oration Award.
- Dr. Anju Kuriakose won award for Best Video on Diabetic Retinopathy Awareness.
- Dr. Mahesh was elected as the Joint Secretary of VRSI.
INOS conference 2023 at Hyderabad (Dec 9th, 10th)
Cochin Ophthalmic Club had a good representation at INOS 2023. Dr Neena R was awarded the second prize for case presentation.
The December monthly meeting of COC, the annual Christmas meeting was held on Dec 12th at IMA House. The meeting was called to order by the President Dr Anil B Das. Secretary Dr Ciju Joseph gave a brief report of activities of previous month. Dr Giridhar spoke about and remembered his time with Dr SS Badrinath who had passed away recently. Dr Thomas Kuriakose and Dr Alexander spoke about and fondly remembered their time with Dr Ravi Thomas who too had passed away recently. After other organisational matters, nomination of posts for Drishti 2024 was done. There were a few non-medical sponsors stalls this time – Body Tree Naturals, Breakthrough Engineering and Equitas Bank. Dr Giridhar was honored for being the recipient of the Patnaik Oration award at 2023, Dr Mahesh was honored for being elected to VRSI executive. OPL team
This was followed by the scientific session chaired by Dr Neena R which consisted of award winning presentations from Drishti 2023 and VRSI 2023.
- Dr. Sugaranjini – ASOCT biomarkers in RCES.
- Dr. Ashapurna Borgohain – Real world experience in treatment of eyes with CNVM switched to intravitreal Brolucizumab
- Dr. Sruthi R – A scan parameters and complications during cataract surgery in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome
- Dr. Neena Chris William – Comparing Ocular Thermography at different temperatures using iDEA.
- Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan – What determines the incidence of myopia in preterm infants with ROP – A 4 year study
- Dr. John Davis Akkara – Novel 3D printing for surgical wetlab practice and innovative instrument design
- Dr. Anju Kuriakose – What will you miss ? Diabetic Retinopathy awareness video through VR
This was followed by Christmas program – Santa, carols, songs, dance and a quiz. The meeting concluded with dinner and fellowship.
- Chaithanya Eye Hospital and Research Institute conducted their annual cataract conference “Phakology 2023” on December 16th and 17that Hotel Le Meridien, Kochi. In addition to Chaithanya faculty, there were around 17 national faculty who conducted Panel Discussions, Round Table Discussions and Didactic Lectures. There was good participation from Cochin, and also from other parts of Kerala such as Kannur and Trivandrum.
NOVEMBER 2023
- The monthly meeting of COC was held on Nov 7th at IMA House. The meeting was called to order by the President Dr. S. Sasikumar. Secretary Dr. Thomas Arun Varghese gave a brief report of activities of 2021-23. Treasurer Dr. Sujithra H presented the treasurer’s report. President Dr. S Sasikumar gave his farewell address and installed the new President (Dr. Anil B Das. Incoming President Dr. Anil B Das addressed the gathering and Dr. TA Alexander inaugurated the activities of COC 2023-25. Incoming Secretary Dr. Ciju Joseph presented the new team of Office bearers. After other organisational matters, there was an Investor Awareness Program by Nippon India Mutual Fund in association with Thirukochi Financial Services.
- The Cochin Ophthalmic Club Outgoing Executive Team and Incoming Executive Team after the Handing Over meeting.
- Giridhar Eye Institute conducted the Myopia Awareness Walk 2023 and Myopia Awareness Talk on Nov 18thunder the aegis of Cochin Ophthalmic Club and KSOS.
- Dr. Neena (COC Scientific Committee Chairman) was in charge of the event and COC executive and members actively participated in the programs.
Vision Screening (Nov 20-23rd)
- Vision Screening for primary school students of Kendriya Vidya laya,Kadavanthara,Bhavan’s Vidya Mandir,Kadavanthara and Global Public School,Kochi by Giridhar Eye Institute as a part of the National Myopia Week.
Drishti 2023 (Nov 24-27)
Cochin Ophthalmic Club members actively participated in KSOS Drishti 2023 held at Thrissur with several faculty talks, papers, posters, videos, OPL, songs, dances, skit and more. Cochin Ophthalmic Club won the following awards at Drishti 2023.
🏆 COC won the Best Ophthalmic Club(metro) award.
🏆 OPL audience choice runner-up – Cochin Avengers team – Dr. Elizabeth Joseph, Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan, Dr. Marian Pauly and Dr. Gopal S Pillai
🏆 Dr. KC Sankara Menon Gold Medal Award – Dr Sugaranjini
🏆 COC Retnet Posterior Segment Free Paper – Dr. Ashapurna Borgohain
🏆 Dr. KGR Nair Memorial Free Paper Award – Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan
🏆 Dr Noel Moniz Anterior segment Free Paper Award ( Joint winners ) – Dr. Sruthi R, Dr. Neena Chris Willliam
🏆 Padmashree Dr. Tony Fernandez Video Award – Dr John Davis Akkara
OCTOBER 2023
COC MONTHLY MEETING
- Monthly meeting of COC was held on 18th oct at Hotel Olive DownTown. The new coc executive committee was elected for the term 2023-2025. Introduction of a new combination AGM ( trisopt ) was done by Dr. S. J. Saikumar.
- Case presentations by PGs and live discussions followed. The meeting was attended by 104 members.
