Meet Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar: A Pioneer in Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery in Pune

When it comes to cancer care in India, one of the prominent names that stands out for trust and recognition is Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar. A visionary surgeon, a dedicated educator, and a compassionate healer, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar has spent more than three decades redefining how cancer is treated, not just in India but across the world.

As a leading Laparoscopic surgeon in Pune, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar has built a legacy rooted in innovation, precision, and a deep commitment to reducing patient suffering. His journey from a medical student in Pune to an internationally acclaimed cancer surgeon is nothing short of inspiring, and for patients battling cancer, it offers a powerful message of hope.

What is Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar’s Medical Background and Expertise?

A. Foundation Built on Excellence

Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar earned his Master’s in Surgery (MS) from the prestigious B.J. Medical College (BJMC) in Pune. His academic excellence laid the groundwork for what would become a groundbreaking career in surgical oncology.

Seeking deeper specialization, he pursued advanced training at the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, India’s most renowned cancer institution. This experience gave him hands-on exposure to some of the most complex cancer cases in the country and honed his surgical expertise.

Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar didn’t stop there. He expanded his horizons through international training in Switzerland and the United States, learning the latest advancements in minimally invasive surgery and robotic techniques. This global perspective became the cornerstone of his practice, blending world-class surgical standards with an understanding of the unique needs of Indian patients.

B. Pioneer of the Pune Technique- Historic Milestone in 2003

In 2003, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar made history by performing India’s first laparoscopic surgery for cervical cancer, a landmark achievement that would change the course of gynecologic oncology in the country. What followed was even more significant: the development of a refined, standardized surgical method now known globally as the Pune Technique.

The Pune Technique is a minimally invasive approach to radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer, designed to be simpler, safer, and reproducible by surgeons across the world. Its brilliance lies in its standardization, it made a complex procedure more accessible without compromising outcomes.

This technique was published in a leading American surgical journal, bringing international validation and credibility to Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar’s work. Today, the Pune Technique has been adopted by surgeons in more than 40 countries, a testament to its global impact and clinical effectiveness.

How Has Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar Contributed to Cancer Care in India?

A. The Best Laparoscopic Surgeon in Pune

With 30+ years of experience, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar has performed thousands of successful surgeries across a wide range of cancer types, including:

• Gynecologic cancers (cervical, ovarian, uterine)
• Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers
• Pelvic cancers

His expertise spans both laparoscopic cancer surgery and robotic cancer surgery, ensuring that every patient receives the most advanced and appropriate treatment available.

What truly sets him apart, however, is his patient-centric philosophy. Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar takes time to understand each patient’s individual condition, concerns, and goals. He communicates with clarity and compassion, treating the person, not just the disease.

B. Teaching, Workshops & International Training

Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar believes that true impact comes from sharing knowledge. He has trained 500+ surgeons across India and 200+ surgeons internationally, helping spread the benefits of minimally invasive cancer surgery far beyond the walls of a single hospital.

His training collaborations include some of India’s most respected institutions:

• Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology
• Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC)
• Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute (GCRI)
• Adyar Cancer Institute, Chennai
• Guwahati Cancer Centre
• Gwalior Cancer Centre, and more

Through these partnerships, he has helped popularize laparoscopic cancer surgery across the country, improving accessibility, reducing recovery times, and most importantly, giving more patients a better quality of life after treatment.

C. Medical Director- Galaxy Care Hospital, Pune, India

As the Medical Director of Galaxy Care Hospital, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar has helped build one of Pune’s most trusted destinations for cancer care. Galaxy Care Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, including advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery systems, designed to deliver outcomes that meet international standards.

What Do Patients Say About Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar?

Patient testimonials paint a vivid picture of Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar’s impact:

“We have received excellent service here. All doctors, nursing staff, and multipurpose health workers are providing quality care. We came here from Sangli for an expert opinion from respected Dr. Puntambekar. It’s really true that he is no less than God in the field of oncology. His personal touch and counselling are sufficient for acceptance and being hopeful for a better quality of life. Thank you so much, sir.”

– Mrs. Ayesha Jamadar-Mujawar

“This was our second visit to Dr. Puntambekar. We had undergone a laparoscopic hysterectomy procedure with him. The surgery went very smoothly. Post-operative care was also very good. The doctor is very humble and extremely good at his work. We are extremely satisfied. Dr. S. Puntambekar is a priceless asset to the medical fraternity.”

– Jasbir Khanuja

“My father was diagnosed with oral cancer, and we were overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. A close friend recommended Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar at Galaxy Care Hospital in Pune, and from our first consultation, we understood why. He took the time to answer every question, clearly explaining the procedure, recovery timeline, and potential complications. The surgery was precise and successful. My father started feeling better after 1–2 days. During his recovery, the Galaxy Care Hospital staff were attentive, always checking in and providing guidance, which made us feel completely supported. The doctor and caregivers here truly value and understand what cancer recovery really needs.”

– Prisha Kapadnis

These real patient reviews reflect something that no degree or publication can fully capture, a surgeon who genuinely cares about his patients’ wellbeing.

Why Should Patients Choose Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar?

Here’s a quick summary of what makes Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar the right choice for cancer surgery:

✔ 30+ years of experience in surgical oncology

✔ Pioneer of the globally recognized Pune Technique

✔ International recognition from medical institutions in 40+ countries

✔ Expert in advanced minimally invasive and robotic cancer surgeries

✔ Trained 700+ surgeons across India and internationally

✔ Proven patient satisfaction with outstanding recovery outcomes

✔ Medical Director of Galaxy Care Hospital, Pune’s leading cancer centre

Choose the Best Oncosurgeon in Pune for Your Cancer Recovery

A cancer diagnosis is one of the most challenging experiences a person and their family can face. In those moments, the expertise, experience, and empathy of your surgeon can make all the difference, not just in clinical outcomes, but in how you feel throughout the journey.

Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar embodies everything a cancer patient deserves in a cancer doctor: decades of proven experience, a pioneering spirit that has advanced the entire field of oncology, and a heartfelt commitment to patient well-being. His work, from developing the Pune Technique to leading Galaxy Care Hospital, reflects a lifelong mission to make world-class cancer care accessible, effective, and humane.

If you or a loved one is seeking the best possible care from a trusted laparoscopic surgeon in Pune, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar and the team at Galaxy Care Hospital are ready to guide you through every step, with compassion, and hope.

Book your appointment at Galaxy Care Hospital in Pune and take a step towards expert cancer care with Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar and his dedicated team. We are in this together!