Army Hospital R&R Performs India’s First Robotic Laser Cataract Surgery

The Ophthalmology Department of India has successfully entered into the frontier of robotic, bladeless, and computer-guided eye surgery with its first-ever femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery.

The Army Hospital Research & Referral (AHRR) has performed India’s first robotic custom-laser cataract surgery using the ALLY Adaptive Cataract Treatment System, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The procedure was conducted on August 28 on a 61-year-old patient by Brigadier S.K. Mishra, senior ophthalmic surgeon at AHRR. The ministry said AHRR is the first government hospital in India and the second institution in South Asia to deploy the technology.

This achievement marks the Ophthalmology Department’s successful entry into the frontier of robotic, bladeless, and computer-guided eye surgery with its first-ever Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS).

Specification Details

The ALLY Adaptive Cataract Treatment System, developed by U.S.-based LENSAR, is designed to integrate advanced imaging with robotic guidance and femtosecond laser capabilities.

The platform automates several critical steps of cataract surgery, including capsulotomy, corneal incisions, and lens fragmentation, with real-time precision. Its workflow is intended to standardize outcomes and reduce reliance on manual incisions.

The introduction of the ALLY system at AHRR is part of the Armed Forces’ effort to expand access to advanced medical procedures for service personnel and their families. Officials said the hospital has invested in upgrading ophthalmic infrastructure to match global standards of care.

Moreover, studies published internationally show that FLACS offers more precision in incision and lens alignment, though long-term visual outcomes are broadly comparable to conventional methods.

The ALLY platform received regulatory clearances in India in recent years, alongside approvals in other markets. In 2024, it received European MDR certification.

In March 2025, global eye-care company Alcon announced the acquisition of LENSAR, a move expected to expand commercial rollout and service infrastructure for the system in India and other regions.

The Ministry of Defence has not disclosed whether the ALLY system will be used at AHRR for routine surgeries or limited to selected cases. Details on procurement, training, and expected case volumes have also not been made public.

By completing the first case with the ALLY platform, AHRR has become the initial government facility in India to adopt robotic femtosecond laser technology for cataract surgery.

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