The Newcastle Eye Centre, located in the Claremont Wing of the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI), has celebrated 30 years of pioneering eye care since its move from the old Newcastle General Hospital site in 1996. The department has conducted complex clinical trials, saved the sight of hundreds of patients, and introduced numerous innovations in ophthalmology.
Pioneering Corneal Service and Clinical Trials
The centre has established a leading corneal service that brings together medical doctors with other professionals to care for the cornea, the front part of the eye. This service has carried out 21 clinical trials, helped introduce sight-saving products now used worldwide, and pioneered procedures for conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Advanced Treatments and Technologies
The Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust became the first in the country to use a state-of-the-art 3D imaging system for retinal surgery. The centre also treats common issues like lazy eyes and squints with orthoptists. Innovations include tiny telescopic lenses implanted for age-related macular degeneration and 3D-printed skull models for surgical planning.
Staff Reflections on Three Decades of Change
Aedheen Regan, head optometrist, has worked for the service for over 30 years. She recalled the move from the General site: "It was a big move, both in terms of the facilities - compared to the General which was so much older. The equipment was much much newer too." She noted that COVID-19 triggered a shift to virtual appointments, increasing capacity, and that imaging technology has advanced significantly. "The service is really completely different to 30 years ago," she said.
Consultant Dr Nancy Redfern remembered surgery at Walkergate Park Hospital prior to the move and highlighted developments in anaesthetics that minimize surgical impact. She stated: "Ophthalmology has changed beyond recognition in the last 30 years - the introduction of new technology and techniques has made procedures much faster and more comfortable for patients."
Transformations in Surgical Techniques
Consultant Mr Jaswant Sandhu discussed how corneal transplants now use keyhole surgery to replace only the affected layer, reducing recovery times from a year to about six weeks. The four consultants—Mr K Narayanan, Mr Jaswant Sandhu, Mr Alan Cunningham, and Dr Nancy Redfern—noted the increased specialization across ophthalmology and the power of injections to treat eye conditions.
Looking Ahead
Professor Francisco Figueiredo, consultant ophthalmologist, said: "Our specialist teams continue to embrace cutting-edge technology, research and innovation to provide the best possible eye care for patients in Newcastle and the wider region. Through providing advanced services, including corneal transplantation, complex surgery and advanced stem cell treatments, we’re able to protect and restore vision." He added that the centre aims to ensure patients benefit from world-class eye care for years to come.
