ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently detained at Central Jail Adiala, underwent a scheduled follow-up eye procedure at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences on 24 February 2026, marking a carefully coordinated effort between judicial oversight, medical authorities and the federal administration to ensure comprehensive healthcare provision to the former premier.
Khan was brought to PIMS for his second dose of anti-VEGF intravitreal injection, part of an ongoing treatment plan aimed at managing his ophthalmic condition. Prior to the procedure, he was thoroughly evaluated by a multidisciplinary board of specialists.
A Consultant Cardiologist conducted a detailed assessment, including echocardiography and ECG. The results were reported as normal. A Consultant Physician also examined him and confirmed that he was clinically stable and fit to undergo the planned procedure.
Following informed consent and under strict monitoring protocols in the operation theatre, the second intravitreal anti-VEGF injection was administered. The procedure was performed under microscopic guidance by a Consultant Ophthalmologist and a Consultant Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon affiliated with PIMS and Al-Shifa Eye Hospital. Notably, the eye specialist from Al-Shifa, as requested, was included in the medical panel, reflecting responsiveness to concerns regarding specialist oversight.
The intervention was carried out as a day-care surgery. Throughout his stay, Mr Khan remained vitally stable before, during and after the procedure. He was subsequently discharged with detailed care instructions, follow-up advice and relevant medical documentation.
Institutional coordination and judicial oversight
The Supreme Court of Pakistan adopted a firm and constructive stance to ensure that due medical attention was provided in accordance with legal and humanitarian standards.
Similarly, jail authorities at Adiala and the federal government facilitated the logistics and medical arrangements necessary for specialised care. The coordination between correctional administration and tertiary medical institutions reflects an institutional commitment to maintaining high standards of healthcare delivery within the custodial framework.
A structured and transparent process
From pre-procedure cardiac clearance to specialist ophthalmic intervention, the process demonstrated structured planning, transparency and adherence to clinical protocols. The inclusion of a specialist from Al-Shifa Eye Hospital as part of the panel further strengthened confidence in the procedure’s integrity.
The episode stands as a reminder that medical care within detention facilities can and should meet national standards of safety and professionalism. In this case, the collaborative approach between judicial authorities, healthcare institutions and jail administration ensured that treatment was delivered without compromise.
