Top Cancer Specialist in Pune: Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar’s Journey of Surgical Excellence - Galaxy-care/blog GitHub Wiki

Cancer care in India has come a long way, with several pioneers transforming the landscape of oncology through innovation, dedication, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. Among them, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar stands out as a beacon of hope and a trailblazer in minimally invasive cancer surgery. Widely recognized as the top cancer specialist in Pune, Dr. Puntambekar’s story is one of vision, precision, and compassionate care.

A Mission Rooted in Compassion Dr. Puntambekar’s journey began with a vision to improve cancer treatment outcomes in India using advanced, patient-friendly techniques. While traditional cancer surgeries often involve extensive incisions and longer recovery times, he saw an opportunity to offer less invasive options with equal — if not better — results.

Driven by this mission, he embraced laparoscopic and robotic surgery early in his career. His philosophy was simple: if cancer could be treated effectively while reducing pain, scarring, and hospital stays, then it was the ethical duty of every surgeon to adopt these techniques.

Pioneering the “Pune Technique” Among his most celebrated contributions to the field is the development of the “Pune Technique” — a revolutionary approach to laparoscopic radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer. This minimally invasive procedure became globally recognized for its precision, safety, and effectiveness, making it a preferred method for surgeons worldwide.

The Pune Technique is not just a surgical innovation; it’s a representation of Dr. Puntambekar’s commitment to elevating patient care. It has helped thousands of women receive effective treatment while maintaining their dignity and quality of life during the recovery process.

Transforming Cancer Care in India As the Medical Director of Galaxy Care Hospital, Dr. Puntambekar has transformed the institute into one of India’s premier cancer treatment centers. Located in Pune, the hospital was the first in Western and Southern India to introduce robotic surgery in oncology. Under his leadership, Galaxy Care became a hub for advanced, patient-centric care — earning the trust of both Indian and international patients.

His expertise spans a wide range of cancers, including gynecologic, gastrointestinal, urologic, and thoracic cancers. Each surgery performed under his guidance reflects a deep understanding of both the technical and emotional needs of cancer patients.

A Landmark Achievement: India’s First Uterus Transplant In 2017, Dr. Puntambekar led the team that performed India’s first uterine transplant at Galaxy Care Hospital — a groundbreaking moment in the country’s medical history. This highly complex and delicate procedure offered new hope to women suffering from uterine infertility. It was yet another example of his belief that no frontier is too far when it comes to improving human lives.

The success of this surgery drew international attention and further cemented Dr. Puntambekar’s reputation as the top cancer specialist in Pune, and one of the most innovative surgical minds in the country.

Recognitions and Global Influence Dr. Puntambekar’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple AAGL Golden Telescope Awards and international accolades for excellence in minimally invasive surgery. Beyond awards, his impact is evident in the number of global surgeons who travel to Pune to observe and learn from his techniques.

He has trained over a thousand surgeons through workshops, live surgeries, and educational seminars. His published research, which includes more than 80 peer-reviewed papers and several medical textbooks, serves as a cornerstone for surgical education in oncology.

A Mentor and a Lifelong Learner Despite his accolades, Dr. Puntambekar remains humble and committed to continuous learning. He believes in the power of knowledge-sharing and mentorship. Whether it’s training the next generation of cancer surgeons or engaging in international collaborations, he is always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible in surgical oncology.

His holistic approach — balancing medical expertise with empathy — has helped countless patients not only survive but thrive after cancer treatment.

Why Patients Trust Him For many patients and families, choosing the right oncologist is a life-altering decision. What sets Dr. Puntambekar apart is his patient-first approach, where every case is handled with individualized care and transparent communication. Patients are involved in their treatment planning, helping them feel more confident and supported throughout the process.

From advanced technology to post-operative recovery support, his team ensures a seamless journey toward healing. It’s no surprise that patients from across India — and even from abroad — seek treatment under his care.

Final Thoughts In a city known for its medical advancements, Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar has emerged as the top cancer specialist in Pune not just because of his clinical expertise, but because of his unwavering dedication to making cancer care more humane, accessible, and effective.

His journey is a testament to how innovation, when paired with compassion, can change lives. Whether it’s through revolutionary surgical techniques or groundbreaking procedures like uterine transplants, Dr. Puntambekar continues to shape the future of oncology — one patient at a time.

Interested in learning more? Visit the Galaxy Care Hospital blog to read about Dr. Puntambekar’s full journey and innovations.