In the vast canvas of modern medicine, surgical gastroenterologist is a realm where science meets courage, and precision with compassion. It is a field that demands not only the sharpest scalpel but also the softest heart because here, every decision carries the weight of a life, and every incision is a promise of hope. With the rapid evolution of minimally invasive surgery, the role of the laparoscopic surgeon has become more critical than ever guardians at the frontline, blending advanced techniques with unwavering empathy. At the helm of this surgical sanctuary is Dr Chetan N. Mhaske, a name synonymous with laparoscopic precision, robotic finesse, and above all, compassion-led healing.

Born into a family grounded in discipline and public service, as his father was an IPS officer, young Chetan grew up surrounded by structure rather than diagnoses. Yet something in him pulsed differently. Where others saw the world in ranks and rules, he saw it in tissues and tendons. The heartbeat of medicine called to him early, and he answered. Dr Chetan N Mhaske charted a different path, becoming the first doctor in his family. His medical journey began at Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical College where he completed his MBBS in 2003, then carved his way into the rigorous corridors of BJ Medical College & Sasoon Hospital, Pune, earning his MS in General Surgery in 2007.

But for him, medicine was never about just degrees it was about depth. With an early fascination for laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures, Dr Chetan N Mhaske pursued additional fellowships to sharpen his surgical prowess. He completed a Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery (F.MAS) and a Fellowship in Gastrointestinal Surgery (F.I.G.S.), followed by observer training in gastroscopy at the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology. His latest milestone a Robotic Surgery Fellowship from the Royal College of Edinburgh guides him into the era of robotic-assisted care.

The Specialist in Complex Simplicity

Dr Chetan N Mhaske’s area of expertise spans across basic to highly complex laparoscopic procedures, including gallbladder surgeries, hiatus hernia repairs, adrenal masses, nephrectomies, incisional and obstructed hernias, rectal prolapse and abdominal wall reconstructions. These surgeries, once considered open-only, are now performed minimally invasively under his skilled hands. His success isn’t just

clinical, it’s also philosophical. Laparoscopy, he believes, minimizes trauma and maximizes dignity in recovery. It’s no surprise that patients place their trust in him his hospital has become a local standout, known for its advanced laparoscopic expertise and infrastructure.

In 2010, armed with little more than confidence, compassion, and an unshakable vision, Dr Chetan N Mhaske laid the foundation of his dream, an eight-bedded nursing home nestled in Hadapsar. What started as a humble center for general and laparoscopic surgeries soon began to pulse with ambition. Through tireless days and uncertain nights, that seed of a dream grew roots. With grit as the blueprint and service as the compass, the hospital steadily evolved into a 25-bedded multi-specialty institution. In 2017, Dr Chetan N Mhaske and his wife achieved a significant milestone, they purchased the very building where their dream had once rented its first breath. “I had no blueprint, no legacy. But I had friends, mentors, and an undying will to build something that truly matters”, says Dr Chetan N Mhaske.

Compassion Without Compromise

His approach is a patient-first model that balances quality with affordability. His motto ‘Care delivered with empathy and compassion’ is boldly displayed at the hospital entrance, setting the tone for every interaction. Unlike corporate hospitals, his model allows him to reduce costs without cutting corners. As the owner-surgeon, he bypasses middlemen, keeping services cost-effective while maintaining the highest standards of care. He has made significant investments in high-definition 4D laparoscopic cameras, harmonic scalpels, energy platforms, and advanced coterie machines tools that allow for magnified, bloodless surgeries with reduced recovery time. While robotic surgeries are currently performed at affiliated centers, his goal is clear, integrate these technologies seamlessly into his primary practice.

Dr Chetan N Mhaske want to develop a surgical center where cost never obstructs care, and where every patient walks out healed, informed, and hopeful

Among countless surgeries, one case remains etched in memory. A patient came with two large common bile duct stones that had been neglected for five years. With ERCP proving ineffective, Dr Chetan N Mhaske performed a laparoscopic CBD exploration and cholangiogram, removing the massive calculi without leaving a visible scar. “The patient walked home in five days, recovered in fifteen, it was a milestone for the hospital and for me”, says Dr Chetan N Mhaske.

A surgeon by profession, but an artist at heart, he is also a painter, singer, fitness enthusiast, and Ganesh idol sculptor. Each year, he handcrafts an eco-friendly clay Ganesh idol and installs it in his hospital, symbolizing healing and humility. He’s a marathon runner, a gym enthusiast, and believes that fitness advice must begin with the physician. He also plays an active role in the medical community, having served as President of Pune Surgical Society and currently Treasurer of Associated Medical Consultants, Pune.

Future Vision

Looking ahead, Dr Chetan N Mhaske envisions building a comprehensive surgical care center in East Pune one that offers all advanced laparoscopic and robotic services under one roof, at a cost that respects both technology and the patient’s pocket. Personally, he aims to continually upgrade his skills, learn from surgical masters worldwide, and expand access to minimally invasive techniques.

Awards & Recognition:

•Emerging Icon of Pune – Awarded by The Times Group
•Dhanvantari Award – Conferred by Lokmat Grou