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February 21, 2026
Eleven complex retinal surgeries, including the first scleral buckle procedures in Guyana’s public sector, were performed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) during a week-long surgical partnership from February 9–13.
The programme brought together local ophthalmologist Dr. Arlene Bobb-Semple, a vitreoretinal specialist, and visiting U.S. retina surgeon Dr. Krishi Peddada of the World Eye Mission. The collaboration aimed to treat challenging retinal cases while providing hands-on training and mentorship for local surgical teams, introducing advanced techniques to the hospital.
Scleral buckle surgery, used to repair retinal detachments either as a primary method or alongside vitrectomy in complex cases, represents a significant expansion of GPHC’s retinal surgical capabilities.
Dr. Bobb-Semple, the only retina surgeon practicing in Guyana, has developed the hospital’s retinal services since 2018. Following the acquisition of vitrectomy equipment, she has performed complex retinal surgeries locally since 2021. Her extensive subspecialty training, including an additional year overseas, has been critical to making advanced retinal surgery accessible in the public sector.
Officials said visiting surgical missions provide valuable skill-sharing opportunities, reduce the need for overseas referrals, and improve access to advanced eye care.
The initiative strengthens GPHC’s, and by extension Guyana’s, capacity to manage complex retinal diseases. Advanced procedures such as scleral buckle surgery are expected to become routine options for eligible patients, ensuring more locals can receive sight-saving care without leaving the country.
