The Indian operation of couching for cataract

A seasoned British surgeon recounts his twenty‑five years in India, where he encountered the traditional practice of couching—an ancient method of dislodging cataracts. Through meticulous observation and collaboration with both European and Indian colleagues, he gathers a wealth of statistics that reveal the procedure’s varied outcomes. The narrative blends personal anecdotes with detailed accounts of the hospital environment, offering listeners a vivid sense of early twentieth‑century medical life in Madras.

Beyond raw data, the work delves into the anatomy and pathology of the eye, supported by striking macroscopic and microscopic photographs taken by the author’s wife. Illustrations map the positions of patients, operators, and assistants, while the author’s reflections on surgical technique provide insight into the evolution of ophthalmology. Listeners will discover a thoughtful blend of scientific rigor and human story, shedding light on a pivotal chapter in the history of eye care.