I chose to specialize in colorectal surgery because of its profound impact on patients’ quality of life. I’ve seen patients arrive with severe abdominal distension from bowel obstructions, and experiencing their relief and gratitude after surgery—when they can eat and function normally again—is deeply fulfilling. It’s akin to being a plumber for the human body, addressing critical issues and restoring normalcy.

Patients should consider consulting a colorectal surgeon if they experience significant changes in bowel habits, such as bleeding, persistent diarrhoea, or constipation. Common anal conditions such as hemorrhoids/piles, anal fistula, anal abscess and anal fissure are treated by colorectal surgeons.

Colorectal surgeons are skilled in performing colonoscopies to detect polyps or colon cancer, which are essential for early diagnosis and treatment.

I stay at the forefront of medical advancements by regularly attending regional and international conferences, keeping up with the latest research in medical journals, and engaging in frequent discussions with colleagues about diverse cases. This commitment to continuous learning enables me to offer the highest level of care to my patients.

My patient care philosophy focuses on actively listening to patients and guiding them through their treatment journey with honesty and transparency. I am committed to achieving the best possible outcomes by building trust and delivering compassionate care. These principles are central to my practice.

One memorable case involved a 70-year-old active woman admitted with an intestinal obstruction that necessitated urgent surgery. During the procedure, we uncovered a large, inoperable colon cancer. We created a stoma to manage her condition and discussed her prognosis with her, while ensuring she received the best possible treatment. Remarkably, after undergoing chemotherapy, the tumor significantly shrank. We were then able to surgically remove the remaining tumor and close the stoma. Five years later, she is cancer-free and has resumed her passion for teaching part-time.

A common misconception is that every colon cancer surgery involves a stoma, but I clarify that only specific types of colorectal surgeries require one, and often, it’s only a temporary solution. Another myth is that hemorrhoids inevitably come back and aren’t worth treating. I assure patients that hemorrhoid surgery can greatly enhance their quality of life, and with proper toilet habits, the chance of recurrence is minimal.

I explain treatment options in simple terms, using models, photos, and videos to aid understanding. I encourage patients to ask questions and share their concerns. I always present all suitable treatment options, explaining the pros and cons of each. Together, we make a joint decision on the best course of action.

I maintain work-life balance by taking short breaks during long, hectic days and staying disciplined about regular exercise. Ensuring I get enough sleep daily is also crucial. This balance helps keep my mind and body fresh, allowing me to provide the best care for my patients.

Laparoscopic surgery has been a significant advancement for past 2 decades, and now robotic surgery is further enhancing this field. Robots assist surgeons in performing very precise operations in narrow or hard-to-reach areas of the body, such as the deep pelvis for rectal surgeries. Additionally, advanced endoscopic resection such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal resection (ESD) allows for the removal of large polyps or early-stage colon cancers via colonoscopy, helping patients avoid major surgeries.

To cut down your cancer risk, focus on eating well and staying active with regular exercise. Keep an eye out for any changes in your bowel habits and don’t brush them off. And don’t forget the importance of regular screening colonoscopies—they’re key to catching issues early so you can tackle them head-on.