Dr. Nalini Rao Radiation Oncologist
Doctor Overview
- Full Name & Designation: Dr. Nalini Rao, Consultant – Radiation Oncologist
- Specialisation(s): Radiation Oncology, Clinical Oncology
- Years of Experience: 46 Years Overall (38+ years as specialist)
- Current Hospital/Institution Affiliation: HCG Cancer Centre, Bangalore
Dr. Nalini Rao is a highly experienced and respected Senior Radiation Oncologist based in Bangalore. She possesses extensive expertise in sophisticated radiation techniques including 3D-CRT, IMRT, IGRT, and Whole Body Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SBRT). Dr. Rao is particularly adept at Gynaecological Brachytherapy and Interstitial Brachytherapy for Head & Neck, Breast, and Soft Tissue Sarcomas. Her commitment to excellence is underscored by international training at prestigious institutions in the UK and USA, including specific training in Advanced Linear Accelerators, IGRT, and CyberKnife. Dr. Rao prioritises quality patient care, ethical practice, and contributes actively to research and community health awareness.
Qualifications & Credentials
Medical Degrees
- MBBS – Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI), Bangalore
- DMRT (Diploma in Radio Therapy) – Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI), Bangalore
- MD – Radiotherapy – Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO), Bangalore
- PGDCR (Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Research) – ICRI
Fellowships & Special Training
- Fellowship – Christie Hospital & Holt Radium Institute, Manchester, UK (2000)
- Training – Advanced Linear Accelerator – UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, USA (2003)
- Training – Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) – Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, USA
- Training – CyberKnife – Accuray, Sunnyvale, California, USA
Areas of Expertise
Major Cancer Types Treated
- Head & Neck Cancers
- Breast Cancer
- Gynaecological Cancers
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas
- GI Cancers
Sub-specialties
- Radiation Oncology
- Clinical Oncology
Advanced Procedures Performed
- 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT)
- Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
- Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
- Whole Body Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SBRT)
- CyberKnife (Whole body Stereotactic Robotic Radiosurgery – Trained)
- Gynaecological Brachytherapy
- Interstitial Brachytherapy (for Head & Neck, Breast, Soft Tissue Sarcomas)
Professional Experience
Current & Past Hospital Affiliations
- Consultant Radiation Oncologist: HealthCare Global (HCG) Cancer Centre, Bangalore (Present).
- Senior Resident: Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO), Bangalore (Sep 1990 – Mar 1992)
Academic & Research Roles
- Head of Department of Radiation Oncology, Bangalore Institute of Oncology (2003-2008).
- Involved in numerous publications.
- Actively participates in Community Health initiatives: Cancer detection camps, community education talks (schools, social organisations), print & TV media discussions for awareness.
Awards & Recognitions
- Mrs. PARVATHI SETHI Award – Best paper presentation at the National Conference of Association
Research & Publications
- “Landscape of clinically actionable mutations in breast cancer ‘A cohort study’.” Translational Oncology (2021).
- “Effects of a Yoga Program on Mood States, Quality of Life, and Toxicity in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Conventional Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Indian Journal of Palliative Care (2017).
- “Incidental Findings in Male Breast Carcinoma: A Genetic Counseling Approach.” International Journal of Human Genetics (2016).
- “Effects of an integrated Yoga Program on Self-reported Depression Scores in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Conventional Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Indian Journal of Palliative Care (2015).
- “Clinical utility of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway activation in breast cancer: A study in Indian population.” Journal of Clinical Oncology (Conference Paper/Abstract) (2015).
- “Quality of life assessment in breast cancer patients: The need for stratification of patients, and of the use of appropriate questionnaires.” Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics (2013).
Patient Success Stories & Testimonials
“Dr. Nalini Rao’s expertise in interstitial brachytherapy for my head and neck cancer was exceptional. She explained the complex procedure clearly and handled it with great skill. Her focus on quality care was evident throughout.” – Mr. Anand P.
“I underwent IGRT for breast cancer under Dr. Rao’s care. Her vast experience was reassuring, and the treatment was delivered precisely. She has a calm and ethical approach which I truly appreciated during a stressful time.” – Mrs. Sunita D.
“Choosing Dr. Nalini Rao for my gynaecological brachytherapy was the right decision. She is incredibly knowledgeable and her team is very professional. The treatment went smoothly, and I felt well-supported.” – Ms. Fatima K.
Treatment Approach & Philosophy
- Patient-Centred Care: Dr. Rao places strong emphasis on providing Quality Care with an Ethical approach. Her involvement in community health and awareness demonstrates a commitment to patient well-being beyond the clinic.
- Technology & Innovation: Dr. Rao leverages her extensive experience and international training to utilise advanced radiation technologies effectively. She is proficient in 3D-CRT, IMRT, IGRT, SBRT, and complex Brachytherapy techniques. Her training in CyberKnife indicates an openness to adopting cutting-edge treatments to improve patient outcomes. She is interested in practice-oriented research to enhance care.
Consultation Fees & Treatment Costs
- Consultation Fee: Consult with Cancer Rounds team to know Dr. Nalini Rao consultation fee.
- Treatment Costs: Costs for radiation therapy vary widely depending on the technique, duration, complexity, and hospital charges. Below are indicative estimates.
| Treatment/Procedure for Cancer | Estimated Cost (INR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Intensity Modulated Radio Therapy (IMRT) | ₹ 2,50,000 – ₹ 5,00,000+ | $ 3,000 – $ 6,000+ |
| Image Guided Radio Therapy (IGRT) | ₹ 3,00,000 – ₹ 6,00,000+ | $ 3,600 – $ 7,200+ |
| Stereotactic Body Radio Therapy (SBRT) | ₹ 4,00,000 – ₹ 8,00,000+ | $ 4,800 – $ 9,600+ |
| Cyberknife Radiosurgery (Course) | ₹ 5,00,000 – ₹ 10,00,000+ | $ 6,000 – $ 12,000+ |
| Brachytherapy (Gynae/Interstitial Course) | ₹ 1,50,000 – ₹ 4,00,000+ | $ 1,800 – $ 4,800+ |
Disclaimer: These are general estimates. Actual costs are determined after evaluation. Contact Cancer Rounds for accurate pricing.
International Patient Assistance
- Language Support: Cancer Rounds typically provides support for all the languages.
- Visa & Travel Assistance: Cancer Rounds team can assist with necessary documentation for medical visas, travel arrangements, and accommodation.
- Pre-treatment Virtual Consultations: Availability of virtual consultations should be confirmed through Cancer Rounds for initial assessment and planning before travel.
FAQs
Q 1. What is Dr. Nalini Rao’s primary specialisation?
Dr. Nalini Rao is a senior Radiation Oncologist with extensive experience in both Radiation Oncology and Clinical Oncology.
Q 2. How many years of experience does Dr. Nalini Rao have?
Dr. Rao has over 38 years of experience as a specialist Radiation Oncologist.
Q 3. What advanced radiation techniques is Dr. Nalini Rao skilled in?
Dr. Nalini Rao is a best Radiation Oncologist in Bangalore and is highly experienced in 3D-CRT, IMRT, IGRT, SBRT, Gynaecological Brachytherapy, and Interstitial Brachytherapy. She also has specialised training in CyberKnife from the USA.
Q 4. Does Dr. Nalini Rao specialise in Brachytherapy?
Yes, Dr. Nalini Rao has significant expertise and experience in Gynaecological Brachytherapy and Interstitial Brachytherapy for treating Head & Neck, Breast, and Soft Tissue Cancers.
Q 5. Has Dr. Nalini Rao received international training?
Yes, Dr. Nalini Rao Oncology Expert received a Fellowship in the UK (Christie Hospital) and undertook advanced training in the USA at UCSF (Linac), Fox Chase (IGRT), and Accuray (CyberKnife).
Q 6. How can I book an appointment with Dr. Nalini Rao?
You can book an Dr. Nalini Rao appointment by contacting Cancer Rounds team.
