Transforming Cancer Treatment with Minimally Invasive Surgery – Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar
The way cancer is treated has changed dramatically in recent decades, thanks to major advances in minimally invasive surgery. At the heart of this transformation is Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar, an Indian oncosurgeon whose name has become synonymous with cancer surgical innovation. His dedication to making cancer surgery safer and more effective has earned him international recognition, especially for his pioneering work in Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery and Robotic Cancer Surgery.
Today, as the Medical Director at Galaxy Care Hospital, Pune, and with more than 38 years of experience, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar continues to lead the way in redefining what is possible in cancer treatment.
Early Journey and Training
Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar began his medical journey at the prestigious B.J. Medical College (BJMC), Pune, where he completed his MBBS and MS. His drive for excellence took him to Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, for advanced fellowships in oncology, followed by specialized training in Switzerland and the United States, where he gained global exposure to the latest surgical techniques.
Early in his career, he faced resistance when adopting laparoscopic surgery for cancer. At the time, many experts doubted whether minimally invasive methods could handle complex cancers. But Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar firmly believed in the benefits for patients, less pain, smaller scars, and quicker recovery, and he never wavered from his mission.
Breakthrough in Laparoscopic Surgery – The Pune Technique
In 2003, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar made history by performing India’s first laparoscopic cervical cancer surgery. This groundbreaking minimally invasive surgery achievement paved the way for the development of the Pune Technique of Radical Hysterectomy—a systematic, step-by-step approach to laparoscopic cancer surgery.
The Pune Technique made complex surgeries safer, more effective, and easier to learn. Its success quickly spread across the globe and is now practiced in more than 40 countries. Thousands of women with gynecological cancers have benefited from this approach, experiencing faster recovery and fewer complications.
Contribution to Training and Knowledge Sharing
Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar firmly believes that innovation must be shared to make a real difference. Over the years, he has trained more than 500+ Indian surgeons and 200+ international surgeons in laparoscopic and robotic cancer surgery.
Through minimally invasive surgery live workshops, surgical demonstrations, and teaching sessions across India and abroad, he has simplified advanced surgical procedures so that even smaller hospitals and less experienced teams can offer safe, high-quality cancer care. This effort has helped make advanced treatments more accessible to patients everywhere, not just at top-tier healthcare institutions.
Robotic Cancer Surgery – Ushering in a New Era
With the arrival of robotic technology, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar once again led the way. In 2009, he became the first surgeon in India to perform robotic surgery for esophageal cancer.
Robotic surgical systems bring unmatched precision, control, and visibility, allowing surgeons to treat complex cancers, from gynecological and gastrointestinal to urological, with greater safety.
Under his leadership, Galaxy Care Hospital became home to the first dedicated robotic cancer surgery theatre in Western and Southern India, giving patients across the country and neighbouring regions access to world-class care.
Global Recognition
Dr. Puntambekar’s work has reached beyond the operating room. He has also contributed significantly to medical literature, publishing important works on pelvic anatomy and cancer surgery, and is a sought-after speaker at international conferences.
He became the first Indian to be elected as a board member of the AAGL (American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopy) and also served as its International Secretary General for the Asia-Pacific region, making him the only Indian surgeon to achieve this distinction. His awards—including the Golden Telescope Award (4 times) and the Kurt Semm Award—stand as proof of his global impact.
Leading the Way in Cancer Surgery
From the pioneering Pune Technique to his groundbreaking work in robotic cancer surgery, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar has redefined cancer care in India and beyond. His focus on innovation, training, and compassionate treatment ensures that advanced surgical options, such as minimally invasive surgery, are available to every patient.
If you or a loved one is facing cancer, consult Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar at Galaxy Care Hospital, Pune, and experience expert care, cutting-edge surgery, and personalized support on your path to recovery. In his hands, patients receive not just treatment, but hope, trust, and the confidence of being cared for by a true expert in oncology. Get in touch with Galaxy Care Hospital to book an appointment.
