A generous donation from the Maidstone Hospital League of Friends has supported the purchase of new, advanced equipment for the Department of Ophthalmology.

The Department is the largest specialised eye unit in the south east, and the new machine – known as the MS39 – will help the expert team diagnose and manage a range of eye conditions. It is the most advanced technology available for analysis of the front portion of the eye: the cornea, iris and lens.

A painless, non-invasive imaging test uses light waves to create detailed, 3D images of the eye. This is used for monitoring and assessment after procedures like corneal transplants and cataract surgery.

The technology can also help in the early detection of keratoconus, where the cornea (the clear front of the eye) bulges outward into a cone shape, causing blurred vision.

Patient and cornea transplant recipient, Dr Dudley Hubbard was the first patient to have a scan using the new equipment at a clinic appointment with Consultant Ophthalmologist, Sundas Maqsood.

Dr Hubbard has had some of his vision restored thanks to cornea transplants and said: “If it was not for the knowledge, expertise and skills of the team, I would not have achieved the result that I have; they really pulled out all the stops to give me as much vision as they could.”

Chairman of the League of Friends, Sue Sullivan said: “I am delighted we have been able to fund this vital piece of equipment for our Ophthalmology Department and I’m confident that many patients will benefit from its use.”

Speaking about the benefits the new equipment will bring to the department, Sundas Maqsood added: “The MS39 is a transformative addition to our cornea service. Having led the business case for bringing this technology to Maidstone Hospital with the generous funding from the League of Friends, it is incredibly rewarding to witness its impact on the patients we serve.

“The MS39 provides exceptional anterior segment imaging and diagnostic precision, allowing us to plan treatments and surgeries with greater confidence.”