Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar

Profile

Dr Shailesh Puntambekar is a distinguished surgeon and the Medical Director at Galaxy CARE Multispeciality Hospital in Pune, India. Renowned worldwide, Dr Puntambekar pioneered laparoscopic and robotic cancer surgeries. He developed the Pune Technique for laparoscopic radical hysterectomy, a revolutionary approach now adopted in over 40 countries. As a result, it has significantly advanced minimally invasive procedures in gynecologic, colorectal, and esophageal cancers. In 2017, Dr Shailesh Puntambekar led India’s first successful uterine transplant, establishing Pune as a centre for innovative surgical practices in Asia.

Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar’s academic contributions are substantial, with over 120 peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, he has authored several authoritative textbooks. These include the Atlas of Gynecologic Oncology and the Atlas of Esophageal Surgery, both of which are widely respected references in the field. His video atlases on colorectal and robotic surgery serve as critical educational tools in advanced surgical programs worldwide. Moreover, these resources highlight Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar’s commitment to enhancing surgical knowledge and expertise on a global scale.

Dr Shailesh Puntambekar, an esteemed faculty member of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopy (AAGL), has earned top honors, including the Golden Telescope and Kurt Semm Awards. These accolades highlight his reputation as a leading laparoscopic surgeon and his influence on minimally invasive cancer surgery techniques. Moreover, his ongoing contributions to AAGL and other international medical bodies, in turn, reflect his dedication to clinical excellence and the continuous education of medical professionals worldwide.

Beyond his surgical expertise, Dr. Puntambekar is a dedicated teacher. In addition, he has trained over 550 surgeons globally through intensive programs at Galaxy CARE and other esteemed institutions, including IRCAD, ISSA, and Harvard Medical School. He regularly conducts live surgeries and cadaveric dissections at international conferences. Through these sessions, he also shares his insights into laparoscopic pelvic anatomy and oncology. A committed humanitarian, Dr Puntambekar established the Niramay Cancer Trust to support underprivileged patients. In addition, he has been providing free surgeries at public hospitals in Pune for over two decades. Dr Puntambekar’s achievements reflect his dedication to advancing minimally invasive cancer surgery in India and worldwide.