Pakistan's jailed ex-Premier Khan taken to hospital for fresh eye treatment amid health concerns

Khan, 74, who is serving a 14-year prison sentence in a corruption case in the northeastern garrison city of Rawalpindi, was brought to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for tests and follow-up treatment for his eye condition, a hospital statement said.

Khan was administered an intravitreal anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injection by an ophthalmology team at the hospital.

The cricketer-turned-politician has received a series of intravitreal anti-VEGF injections in his right eye as part of treatment for central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) in the right eye, a condition diagnosed after he reported reduced vision.

"During his stay at PIMS, he remained vitally stable before, during, and after the procedure," the statement said, adding that he was discharged at approximately 2.30 am with instructions for further care and follow-up.

The statement said Khan remained at PIMS for around 40 to 50 minutes before being transferred back to jail after his condition was found to be satisfactory.

"His vital parameters were found to be normal. He was clinically stable, and his general physical examination was unremarkable. After obtaining informed consent and following standard monitoring procedures, precautionary measures and clinical protocols, the ophthalmology team administered an intravitreal anti-VEGF injection," the official said.

"Prior to the procedure, he underwent a medical examination, including ocular assessment. His vital parameters were found to be normal. He was clinically stable, and his general physical examination was normal," the statement said.

Khan, who served as premier from 2018 to 2022, remained at the hospital for 50 minutes before he was transferred back to jail.

The former premier's healthcare and access to family and personal doctors have remained a major flashpoint between his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and the government in recent months.

The PTI questioned the transparency of the latest procedure, raising fresh concerns over Khan’s health and the quality of care provided in custody.

He is facing a slew of cases ranging from corruption to terrorism, which he describes as "sham" and politically motivated.

"The state bears full responsibility for his safety and well-being. His family, personal doctors and legal team must be given immediate and unrestricted access," the party said in a statement.

Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023.