Cancer is a word that changes lives in an instant. For patients, it brings uncertainty and fear. For a Surgical Oncologist in Chennai, it is a daily battle—one fought with skill, precision, and deep compassion. Every day is a race against time, where every decision could mean the difference between life and loss.
In Chennai, where advanced cancer care is evolving rapidly, experts like Dr. N. Kathiresan, a senior Surgical Oncologist at ICCG India, dedicate their lives to ensuring that patients receive the best possible treatment. But what does a typical day look like for a surgical oncologist? Let’s step into their world.
The Early Morning Routine: Preparation and Planning
The day begins long before the first surgery is scheduled. At dawn, a surgical oncologist in Chennai reviews patient cases, analyzing imaging scans, biopsy results, and treatment plans. Every detail matters—tumor size, location, metastasis, and how the surgery will impact the patient’s long-term quality of life.
Before stepping into the hospital, a final glance at the day’s surgical schedule helps set priorities. Each patient is unique, and their care requires a multi-disciplinary approach, involving medical oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists. A well-prepared plan ensures seamless coordination.
Ward Rounds: Checking on Recovery and Reassurance
Before heading to the operating room, the oncologist visits patients recovering from previous surgeries. Post-operative care is just as critical as the procedure itself. Checking for signs of infection, ensuring pain management, and reviewing post-surgical progress are all essential.
Beyond the medical aspects, these rounds are deeply personal. A reassuring word, a gentle smile, or simply listening to a patient’s concerns can ease anxiety. For many, their oncologist is their pillar of hope—someone they trust to guide them through one of the toughest battles of their lives.
Operating Room: Precision and Expertise at Work
In the operating room, the real challenge begins. Surgical oncology is a delicate balance between removing cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Every incision, every movement is calculated.
Whether it’s a complex head and neck tumor removal, a breast-conserving mastectomy, or a laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery, each procedure requires unwavering focus. The team works like a well-orchestrated symphony—anesthesiologists, nurses, and fellow surgeons moving in sync to ensure the best outcome for the patient.
Some surgeries last a few hours, others may stretch into the entire day. In cases where cancer has spread extensively, decisions must be made in real time. It’s mentally and physically exhausting, but knowing that these efforts can give a patient more years with their loved ones makes it all worthwhile.
Consultations: Guiding Patients and Families
After surgery, the oncologist moves on to consultations. Meeting new patients, explaining diagnoses, and discussing treatment plans require both knowledge and empathy. Cancer isn’t just a medical condition—it affects families emotionally, financially, and psychologically.
Patients often have numerous concerns: What are my treatment options? Will I need chemotherapy after surgery? What is my survival rate? Answering these questions with honesty and kindness helps patients make informed decisions about their health.
For many, the consultation room is where they first hear the words “You have cancer.” It’s a moment that stays with them forever. The oncologist’s role is not just to treat but also to provide emotional support, guiding them toward hope and recovery.
Collaboration with Specialists: The Team Approach
Cancer treatment isn’t a one-person job. At ICCG India, a Surgical Oncologist in Chennai works closely with medical oncologists, radiation specialists, pathologists, and palliative care teams. Regular tumor board meetings ensure that every patient’s case is discussed thoroughly, with multiple experts providing input on the best treatment approach.
These discussions are crucial, especially for rare or aggressive cancers where innovative treatment strategies are needed. Personalized care plans ensure that each patient gets the best possible outcome based on the latest advancements in oncology.
Evening Reflection: Learning and Growing
As the day winds down, a surgical oncologist reviews post-operative reports, updates patient records, and prepares for the next day. Continuous learning is part of the profession. Staying updated with the latest research, attending oncology conferences, and engaging in clinical trials help improve treatment outcomes.
Despite the long hours and emotional toll, the sense of fulfillment remains unmatched. Every successful surgery, every cancer-free diagnosis, and every patient who regains their quality of life reaffirms the purpose behind the profession.
Conclusion: ICCG India’s Commitment to Excellence
In the fight against cancer, expertise, technology, and compassionate care make all the difference. ICCG India is committed to providing world-class surgical oncology services in Chennai, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible treatment.
With Dr. N. Kathiresan surgical oncologist at ICCG India, leading the way, patients can trust that they are in the hands of one of the most experienced and skilled cancer specialists in the city. His dedication, combined with a state-of-the-art medical facility, ensures that every patient gets the highest standard of care.
For those seeking the best surgical oncologist in Chennai, ICCG India stands as a beacon of hope, offering expertise, innovation, and unwavering compassion in the fight against cancer.
