Bariatric surgery in India has evolved from initial open procedures to minimally invasive techniques, with a rise in laparoscopic procedures like sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass, and the emergence of robotic surgery. Amongst many healthcare doyens boosting orthopedic healthcare in India, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada is a distinguished bariatric surgeon who has dedicated his career to transforming the lives of patients struggling with obesity and related health issues.

With a robust educational background and extensive professional experience, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada has emerged as a leading expert in surgical gastroenterology, particularly in the realm of metabolic surgery. His journey from a small town in Karnataka to becoming the Clinical Director of Surgical Gastroenterology at Yashoda Hospital in Hyderabad is a testament to his unwavering commitment to patient care, surgical excellence, and continuous learning. Born and raised in Kanpur Ghat, Gulbarga, Karnataka, his early life was shaped by a strong familial influence.

His elder sister, already pursuing a career in medicine, ignited his interest in the medical field. Initially drawn to engineering, Dr Vijay Kumar found himself increasingly fascinated by the world of medicine, particularly the surgical aspects. This passion led him to pursue his undergraduate studies in medicine at Gulbarga Medical College, one of the oldest medical institutions in India.

Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada’s academic journey continued as he completed his MS in General Surgery at the same institution. His time in medical school was marked by a growing interest in surgical gastroenterology and oncosurgery areas and he possessed significant potential for improving patient outcomes. This realization motivated him to specialize further, leading him to Global Hospitals in Hyderabad, where he upgraded his skills in surgical gastroenterology and gained more exposure to advanced techniques such as liver transplantation and minimal access surgery.

Professional Quest

Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada’s professional journey is characterized by a series of significant roles that have shaped his expertise and leadership in the field. After completing his specialization, he joined the NIMS Institute in Hyderabad as an Assistant Professor in Surgical Gastroenterology. In this role, he not only contributed to the academic development of future surgeons but also engaged in clinical practice, where he began to establish his reputation as a skilled surgeon.

Following his tenure at NIMS, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada returned to Global Hospitals as a Senior Consultant and Academic Head. Here, he played a pivotal role in training and mentoring surgical gastroenterology students, guiding them through complex procedures and instilling in them the importance of patient-centered care. His commitment to education and mentorship has been a hallmark of his career, as he believes that teaching others enhances his own skills and knowledge.

In pursuit of further challenges, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada accepted a position at the Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), where he was tasked with developing the gastroenterology department. Over six years, he successfully transformed the unit into a high volume center known for its quality and complexity of surgeries. His leadership and vision were instrumental in establishing SKIMS as a reputable institution for gastroenterology in the region.

Currently, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada serves as the Clinical Director of Surgical Gastroenterology at Yashoda Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility with a capacity of 2,000 beds. Under his leadership, the department has become a center of excellence for robotic surgery, particularly in gastrointestinal(GI) surgery, hepatobiliary surgery, and hernias. Vijay Kumar C. Bada’s commitment to innovation is evident in his early adoption of robotic surgery techniques, which have significantly improved patient outcomes and reduced recovery times.

Challenges in Bariatric Surgery

Throughout his career, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada has encountered numerous challenges, particularly in the field of bariatric surgery. One of the most significant hurdles he faces is the perception of obesity as a non disease. Many patients arrive at his clinic with multiple health issues related to obesity but do not recognize the severity of their condition. He emphasizes the importance of educating patients about the consequences they have to face associated with obesity and the necessity of surgical intervention.

To address this challenge, he dedicates valuable time to counseling patients and their families, helping them to get aware of the implications of obesity on their overall health. By changing their mindset and encouraging them to view obesity as a serious medical condition, he fosters a sense of urgency and responsibility in seeking treatment. Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada believes that effective communication and education are vital keys to overcoming the stigma associated with obesity and ensuring patients are fully informed about their options.

Focus on Consistent Updation

In a rapidly evolving field like bariatric surgery, staying updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada commits a significant amount of his time to research and professional develop -ment. He is an active member of various medical associations and regularly attends national and international conferences to learn about the latest techniques and technologies in surgery.

Every week, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada sets aside time for research, reviewing recent articles and studies published in medical journals. He is also involved in the research and development of surgical technologies, collaborating with companies to improve surgical instruments and techniques. By engaging in clinical trials and analyzing his surgical outcomes, he continuously refines his skills and enhances the quality of care he provides to his patients.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada aims to incorporate cutting-edge technologies, such as singlehole robotic surgery, into his practice. By staying at the forefront of surgical innovation, he hopes to provide patients with the most advanced and effective treatment options available

Additionally, Dr Vijay Kumar C. Bada has ambitious plans for advancing his bariatric surgery practice. He envisions creating a dedicated metabolic surgery unit within his department, focusing solely on metabolic surgeries. This specialized unit will allow for a more robust and dedicated approach to treating obesity and its associated health issues.