Landmark medical achievement by Indian Army
Army Performs India’s First 3D Flex Aqueous Angiography: The Indian Army has achieved a major medical milestone by performing India’s first 3D Flex Aqueous Angiography with iStent.
The procedure was conducted on December 31, 2025, at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi Cantt.
This advancement marks a significant step in the precision diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness.
Breakthrough surgery at Army Hospital
The pioneering procedure was led by Brigadier Dr Sanjay Mishra, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology.
The surgery involved real-time visualisation of the eye’s aqueous humour drainage pathways using advanced three-dimensional imaging.
Based on this live mapping, surgeons implanted an iStent, a microscopic device designed to improve fluid outflow from the eye.
Static GK fact: The Army Hospital (Research & Referral) is one of India’s premier tertiary care medical institutions under the Armed Forces.
Understanding 3D Flex Aqueous Angiography
3D Flex Aqueous Angiography is a cutting-edge imaging technique that maps how fluid drains from the eye.
It allows surgeons to identify precisely where drainage channels are blocked or functioning poorly.
This real-time mapping enables targeted intervention, rather than relying on generalized surgical approaches.
Static GK Tip: Aqueous humour is the clear fluid that maintains eye pressure and nourishes ocular tissues.
Role of advanced imaging technology
The success of the procedure was made possible by a movable stand-mounted Spectralis imaging system integrated with a 3D operating microscope.
This setup provides high-definition, zoomed, real-time views of the eye’s internal drainage structures during surgery.
Enhanced visual clarity ensures accurate placement of the iStent, improving surgical precision and patient safety.
Importance of iStent in glaucoma treatment
The iStent is a micro-implant used in minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.
It helps reduce intraocular pressure by improving the natural outflow of aqueous humour.
Lowering eye pressure is critical in slowing or preventing optic nerve damage caused by glaucoma.
Static GK fact: Normal intraocular pressure usually ranges between 10–21 mm Hg.
Significance for glaucoma care in India
Glaucoma often progresses silently, with no early warning signs.
Many patients in India are diagnosed only after permanent vision loss has occurred.
The introduction of 3D Flex Aqueous Angiography allows earlier detection and precise treatment, improving long-term visual outcomes.
Expansion to Command Hospital Lucknow
Following the success of this procedure, the Armed Forces Medical Services plan to install the same advanced system at Command Hospital, Lucknow.
The hospital serves nearly 3.5 lakh patients across six states and Nepal.
This expansion will significantly strengthen advanced ophthalmic care for defence personnel, veterans, and civilians.
Static GK fact: The Armed Forces Medical Services provide comprehensive healthcare across India through command, zonal, and peripheral hospitals.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Army Performs India’s First 3D Flex Aqueous Angiography:
| Topic | Detail |
| Medical milestone | First 3D Flex Aqueous Angiography with iStent in India |
| Performing body | Indian Army |
| Hospital | Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi Cantt |
| Lead surgeon | Brigadier Dr Sanjay Mishra |
| Disease targeted | Glaucoma |
| Key device | iStent micro-implant |
| Imaging technology | Spectralis system with 3D microscope |
| Future expansion | Command Hospital, Lucknow |
| Beneficiary population | Defence personnel, veterans, civilians |
| National significance | Advancement in precision ophthalmic surgery |
