Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — LBJ Hospital is getting a Phaco machine thanks to the assistance of Dr. Mitchell Brinks, an ophthalmologist from Oregon Health & Science University and Dr. Nate Gabbard, the son of local LDS missionary doctor, Dr. James Gabbard. 

In a statement released by the LBJ, states that Dr. Nate Gabbard sought funding for a Phaco machine for LBJ Hospital and was able to secure it, with OHSU Casey Eye Institute Foundation donating the machine for specialized cataract surgeries. 

 The phacoemulsification, according to Dr. Brinks, is ultra sound based for cataract treatment so instead of taking the lenses out in one large piece, “we break it up with the ultrasound probe, very complicated fluids dynamic incisions that are very small, just two millimeters. 

 “The standard of care for modern cataract surgery is safer and more appropriate for the softer type of cataracts." 

This will allow the local ophthalmologists at LBJ to perform cataract surgeries that have been referred off island since the last Phaco machine became un-repairable. 

Acting CEO Dr. Akapusi Ledua thanked Dr. Brinks and Dr. Gabbard for their help in securing this machine for LBJ, said that it is their goal to lessen the referrals by at least 60-70% to save on costs. 

 “LBJ's part in this is to purchase and keep track of inventory on disposables that are used during surgery such as lens implants. 

 “Acting CMO Dr. Jospeh Shumway assured Dr. Brinks that LBJ will take on the responsibility of purchasing the needed tools and disposables for the machine. 

 “Also present during the meeting on Monday was ASCMA Vice-Chairwoman, Dr. Jean Anderson, who thanked the OHSU Casey Eye Institute Foundation for the donation.” 

LBJ's ophthalmologist and Vice-Chief of Staff, Dr. Ben Siatu'u, said that they are looking forward to receiving the machine and it will greatly eliminate the need for off island referrals for soft cataracts that affects smokers especially in the 30s to 40s population and those "taking steroids for asthma." 

 “The machine is in the process of being purchased and may take several months before it arrives in American Samoa, and in the hands of LBJ.  Pictured here (from l–r) are Dr. Gabbard, Acting CEO Dr. Ledua, Dr. Brinks, Dr. Siatu'u, Acting CMO Dr. Shumway and Dr. Anderson.”

This comes just days after an equipment donation to the eye clinic from the Roundhouse Foundation.