Med School/Year Graduated: Government Medical College (Amritsar, India), 1996
Years in Practice: 15
Colon and rectal disease is an uncomfortable topic, in an uncomfortable place. Over your long career, have you developed ways of communicating with patients to help put them at ease?
I always try to build a rapport with my patients and do my best to make them comfortable by talking and listening to them, so that they can communicate their problems in a simple and straight fashion. Many times, I use a little humor to help them communicate with me.
What percentage of your caseload involves cancer, as opposed to other conditions?
I see significant colorectal cancer patients in my practice, and over the last few years have been seeing more younger patients with colorectal cancer. But overall, like any other colorectal surgeon in the community, the majority of my practice involves benign conditions.
How have advancements in robotic surgery impacted your work as a colorectal surgeon?
It has helped me a lot in taking care of my patients with better outcomes, faster recovery and reducing their length of stay in hospital. It has also helped me as a surgeon to be more efficient and reduce fatigue.
Are any colorectal conditions on the rise? Or declining?
Colorectal cancer is on the rise among young people. It’s now the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. for those under 50, according to a new analysis. Some 3,905 people ages 20 to 49 died of colorectal cancer in 2023, according to Cancer Society statistics, compared with 3,809 for breast cancer and 2,086 for brain and other nervous system cancers.
You trained as a surgeon in Pennsylvania. What did you like best about living there?
I did my general surgery training in Lehigh Valley. I always loved the weather and enjoyed a true four seasons there, especially the change of color of beautiful tree leaves in fall. I did my fellowship training in Buffalo, where I believe I became a biggest fan of Buffalo Bills, and most of my friends in Phoenix know that very well.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I like spending time with my family at home, and watch football and like to go on my Harley Davidson bike whenever I get a break.
What shows are you streaming these days?
I feel that watching news nowadays is more entertaining and educational than anything else… but I always like watching newly released Disney and Bollywood movies with my kids in the theater as a top priority.
