On Poson Full Moon Day a remarkable cataract surgery camp was held at the Kuliyapitiya Teaching Hospital, led by Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr. Kasun Gunawardena.
Dr. Kasun
Gunawardena
In an extraordinary display of dedication and skill, Dr Gunawardena singlehandedly performed 257 phacoemulsification surgeries (cataract removal and intraocular lens implantation) from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on June 10, 2025. This exceptional achievement sets a new record for the highest number of phacoemulsification surgeries (cataract removal with intraocular lens implantation) performed by a surgeon in a single day — the highest ever recorded in both Sri Lanka and globally.
The success of this camp was made possible through the generous support of the hospital administration and a few private donors, alongside the tireless efforts of the hospital staff. Due to the absence of functional facilities for cataract surgery over the past six months at the Kuliyapitiya Teaching Hospital, essential equipment was sourced from the Base Hospitals of Marawila and Dambeniya.
Doctors, nurses, junior staff, and administrative personnel of the hospital and ophthalmology unit worked diligently for several days to support the initiative and ensure its smooth execution.
This inspiring effort not only restored vision of hundreds of patients but also highlighted the power of commitment, collaboration, and compassion in delivering quality healthcare to those in need.
When The Island contacted Dr. Gunawardena, he said that there were 2,000 more cataract patients wait-listed at the Kuliyapitiya Hospital and the non availability of a phacoemulsification machine at the hospital had led to the delay.
“The Health Ministry has already placed an order for a phacoemulsification machine for the Kuliyapitiya hospital and until the machine is delivered, we have to seek the assistance of some private companies and other hospitals for a machine and they oblige whenever we seek their assistance,” he said.
Director of the hospital Dr. K.A.R.P. Jayathilake said a phacoemulsification machine would cost the government around Rs. 20 million and it was expected to be delivered at the Kuliyapitiya Teaching Hospital in a few months.
Dr. Gunawardana has also conducted numerous charity-based cataract surgery camps in the recent months at the Vavuniya District Hospital, Ampara District Hospital, and the Nuwara Eliya District Hospital, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to restoring sight and serving underprivileged communities across the country. (HG)