In the vanguard of medical innovation, thoracic surgery emerges as a transformative force not only redefining patient care but also intricately shaping the growth and advancement of the healthcare ecosystem in India. This specialized field navigates the intricacies of lung and chest surgeries with unparalleled dedication. As advancements in minimally invasive techniques and robotic surgery unfold, thoracic surgery assumes a pivotal role in elevating healthcare standards. Going beyond surgical precision, its impact stretches to reshape healthcare scenarios, providing a sneak peek into a future where patient centric methodologies blend seamlessly with state-of-the-art technology for comprehensive medical advancement. In light of this, Dr. Rohan Reddy C stands out as a trendsetter in the realm of thoracic surgery, contributing significantly to this transformative journey.

Dr. Rohan Reddy C is a thoracic surgeon, specializing in surgeries related to the lungs and structures within the chest (excluding the heart). His educational journey commenced with an MBBS degree from Bangalore Medical College. He further pursued a DNB in General Surgery at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, and completed his super-specialization in DNB Thoracic Surgery, from the reputed Narayana Institute of Health (Narayana Hrudayalaya), Bengaluru. Dr. Rohan's commitment to advancing his skills led him to international fellowships in Shanghai, China, and Sao Paulo, Brazil, where he gained expertise in Robotic surgery.

Distinctive Aspects of Thoracic Surgery

Dr. Rohan sheds light on the unique aspects of thoracic surgery, emphasizing its focus on surgeries involving the lungs, pleural space, airway, mediastinal tumours, chest wall muscles, food pipe, and diaphragm, which were traditionally handled by cardiothoracic surgeons. The growth of thoracic surgery in India has been slow, particularly in terms of minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) and robotic surgery, which is currently transforming the landscape.

Furthermore, reflecting on the healthcare evolution in Hyderabad, Dr. Rohan notes a significant transformation over the past four to five years. “The establishment of major multi-specialty hospitals with advanced infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities, although making healthcare relatively expensive, has brought in the top quality services that have propelled Hyderabad to a position of excellence in the healthcare industry", says Dr. Rohan Reddy C.

Dr. Rohan is amongst the very few surgeons in Hyderabad who are trained in advanced approaches in the field of thoracic surgery

Challenges & Treatment Approaches

Addressing the unique challenges faced in thoracic surgical patient care, Dr. Rohan highlights that there is a gross lack of awareness, especially amongst the underprivileged section of society, particularly in dealing with chronic diseases like tuberculosis that often go unnoticed until advanced stages.

Financial constraints of patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds perhaps pose the greatest challenge. Financial concerns often deter them from seeking timely treatment. Currently, there exists a state of medical ‘paradox’ where the care and resources required for a thoracic surgical patient are usually plentiful, which are becoming ever increasingly available in Hyderabad, yet the patient who deserves the most care falls short of receiving it.

It requires extensive efforts and education, both for fellow physicians and patients from the grassroots level. He underlines the critical role of communication and trust building in making patients understand the complexities, risks, and potential outcomes of their medical journey. Dr. Rohan adopts a comprehensive approach to treatment, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation both before and after surgery.

Dr. Rohan has contributed to the novel approaches of Uniportal VATS and Uniportal RATS (Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery), as a part of the team during his time in Bengaluru, showcasing his commitment to advancing surgical techniques. His contributions to the field extend beyond the operating room. He has garnered professional recognition through an array of publications and his pivotal role as the Organizing Secretary for the National Thoracic CME, orchestrating workshops and lectures for the betterment of the medical community.

Dr. Rohan adopts a comprehensive approach to treatment, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation both before & after surgery

Advice for Aspiring Healthcare Professionals

Dr. Rohan Reddy C imparts invaluable advice to budding healthcare professionals, drawing from the insights garnered throughout his remarkable journey. His emphasis on choosing a career in medicine driven by passion and personal satisfaction, rather than financial motives, underscores a profound commitment to the noble facets of the profession. In the face of escalating complexity and competitiveness within the healthcare domain, Dr. Rohan advocates for a resilient mindset among aspiring professionals, urging them to anticipate challenges and steadfastly prioritize the well-being of their patients. He highlights the role of a clinician in preventing the ‘erosion of trust’ in the doctor patient relationship, especially in the era of increasing corporatization of healthcare.

This guidance reflects not only Dr. Rohan's ethos, but also serves as a beacon for those entering the healthcare realm, reinforcing the enduring importance of compassion, dedication, and an unwavering focus on patientcare.

Dr. Rohan Reddy C symbolizes the upcoming generation with excellence in thoracic surgery, adeptly maneuvering through the ever-changing healthcare scenario in India. His distinctive approach, a fusion of surgical craft, inventive techniques, contribution to medical literature, participation in academic events, and a patient-centric ethos, places him as a strong contender to be a leader in his field. His persistent dedication is essential for a profound impact on the perpetually evolving healthcare ecosystem as he would shape the trajectory of thoracic surgery in India.