Corneal Procurement and Transplantation Workshop (CPTW)

Our eyes, indeed, convey a myriad of emotions and thoughts. Imagine witnessing a breathtaking landscape of a poppy field with the sun dipping low on the horizon, casting a crimson hue over the endless sea of flowers. Such ordinary moments become extraordinary when we cherish the gift of sight. For those who are denied this privilege, corneal transplantation provides a beacon of hope, offering an opportunity to restore vision. However, the success of this procedure depends on proficient corneal procurement techniques and meticulous surgical skills. Recognising the paramount importance of these aspects, the Corneal Procurement and Transplantation Workshop (CPTW) aims to address this critical need to not only equip medical students across Malaysia to acquire hands-on skills but also empower them to be catalysts of change, offering patients a transformative opportunity to regain the gift of vision and be connected to the colourful and fascinating world around them.

The Malaysian Students’ Surgical Society (MSSS) successfully hosted its inaugural ophthalmology workshop on October 26, 2024. After months of thorough planning, the 9-hour workshop, organised in collaboration with 

Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), Department of Ophthalmology, took place at the Preclinical Building, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. The event was generously sponsored and endorsed by the Malaysian Society of Ophthalmology (MSO). We were also honoured to have IMU Surgical Society joining us as special guests for the event. Notably, the workshop included a half-day program focusing on basic surgical skills, which pre-medical students were eligible to join. Participants hailed from various medical schools across Malaysia including Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, IMU University, Universiti Malaya, AIMST University, MAHSA University, Management and Science University, Manipal University College Malaysia, Monash University Malaysia, National Defence University of Malaysia, Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Taylor’s University, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and University of Cyberjaya. What’s more, a significant number of enthusiastic Year 1 and Year 2 medical students showcased their early interest in the field of ophthalmology.

In addition, on October 23, 2024, a pre-event online webinar was held featuring presentations by esteemed experts. Dr. Mazaya Mahmud provided insights into corneal harvesting and procurement, Dr. Wai Sheng Xuan delved into the intricacies of eye anatomy and corneal physiology, and Dr. Hasdy Haron from National Transplant Resource Centre (NTRC) shared the latest updates on organ donation practices both locally and globally. Their willingness to share their expertise with future healthcare professionals was truly inspiring.

-Event Day-

A vibrant atmosphere filled the venue on October 26, 2024, as nearly 108 enthusiastic participants gathered. By 7:45 AM, the place was buzzing with activity as participants registered and collected their goodie bags. The event got underway with a warm and inviting address from Ms. Kaelynn H’ng Xin Tong, the Organising Chairperson of CPTW. Dr. Al Hassan bin Sajahan then delivered an insightful introductory speech regarding the event and a brief background of MSSS. Subsequently, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jemaima Che Hamzah graced the occasion with her officiating speech. Upon finishing her speech, a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official commencement of the workshop, followed by the presentation of tokens of appreciation to the distinguished guests. 

The program then transitioned into a sharing session on the ophthalmology training pathway, led by the esteemed Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jemaima Che Hamzah. Subsequent lecture sessions explored various aspects of corneal transplantation. Dr. Lam Chenshen provided invaluable insights into indications and contraindications of corneal transplant. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wan Haslina Wan Abdul Halim shared about the diverse types of keratoplasty while Dr. Chandramalar Santhirathelagan shed light on the crucial processes of corneal donation, storage, and processing, leaving the participants enlightened.

After a short break, the day continued with a hands-on basic surgical skills workshop, led by experienced peer facilitators. Participants eagerly engaged in a series of hands-on learning. A hearty lunch break provided a much-needed rest, allowing participants to recharge and network with their peers. The afternoon session was a whirlwind of immersive and dynamic learning. Participants rotated through various stations, each offering unique and thrilling learning opportunities. They honed their skills in corneal procurement and eyeball suturing, mastered the art of slit-lamp examination, and practised using the ophthalmoscope, pen torch, and relative afferent pupil defect (RAPD) assessment. Furthermore, they gained enriching experience in laparoscopy and knot-tying techniques which were led by the peer facilitators.

As the day drew to a close, a sense of accomplishment filled the air. The hall was alive with laughter and spirit of camaraderie as participants captured the moments in photographs. Overwhelmingly positive feedback flooded in, with many praising the event’s innovative approach, engaging content, and the opportunity to learn from seasoned experts and passionate peers. CPTW undeniably transformed participants’ perspectives, sparking a deeper understanding of the crucial role of organ donation, particularly in corneal transplantation and fuelling a deeper passion for ophthalmology.