Dr. Shakuntala V Shah Surgical Oncologist

Doctor Overview

• Full Name & Designation: Dr. Shakuntala Shah, Head of Surgical Oncology
• Specialisation(s): Surgical Oncology, Head and Neck Cancer Surgery, Breast Surgery
• Years of Experience: 35+ Years
• Current Hospital/Institution Affiliation: Apollo CBCC Cancer Care (Apollo Hospitals City Centre), Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Dr. Shakuntala Shah brings vast clinical experience, particularly in Head & Neck and Breast cancer surgeries. A distinguished alumna of Government Medical College Surat (MBBS) and B.J. Medical College Ahmedabad (MS Surgery), Dr. Shah was a University topper with seven medals. Before joining the current organisation, she had a long and successful tenure at The Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute (GCRI), retiring as Professor and Head of Surgical Oncology. She is recognised for pioneering the blue dye technique for sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer within Gujarat and maintains a strong patient-centric approach, focusing on tailored treatments and patient education.

Qualifications & Credentials

Medical Degrees:

• MBBS: Government Medical College, Surat (Gujarat University) – Achieved University First Rank and Seven Medals
• MS General Surgery: B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad (Gujarat University)

Certifications & Accreditations:

• Medical Registration Verified

Areas of Expertise

Major Cancer Types Treated:

• Head and Neck Cancers (Oral cavity, Larynx, Pharynx, Thyroid, Salivary Gland etc.)
• Breast Cancer

Sub-specialties:

• Surgical Oncology
• Head & Neck Surgery
• Breast Surgery
• Thyroid Surgery
• Breast Cancer Management
• Breast Conservation Surgery

Advanced Procedures Performed:

• Complex Head and Neck Cancer Resections and Reconstructions
• Neck Dissections (including Levels IIb and V assessment)
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) for Breast Cancer using Blue Dye Technique (Pioneer in Gujarat)
• Mastectomy and Breast Conservation Surgeries
• Thyroidectomy
• Various other Oncological Surgical Procedures

Professional Experience

Current & Past Hospital Affiliations:

• Head of Surgical Oncology: Apollo CBCC (Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Centre), Ahmedabad (Current)
• Professor and Head, Surgical Oncology Services: The Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute (GCRI), Ahmedabad
• Held various positions (including Registrar, Associate Professor): The Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute (GCRI), Ahmedabad
• Consultant: Super Surgical Hospital (Anamay Cancer Hospital), Ahmedabad

Academic & Research Roles:

• Ex University Teacher: M.Ch. (Surgical Oncology) Programme
• Editorial Board Member: Journal of Surgical Oncology

Awards & Recognitions

• University First Rank & Seven Gold Medals during MBBS.
• Winner of First Prize in Quiz conducted at 33rd Annual Conference (North West Zone), GMCH-32, Chandigarh (Sept 2009).
• Winner of GOLD MEDAL for BEST THESIS PAPER presented at 33rd Annual Conference (North West Zone), GMCH-32, Chandigarh (Sept 2009).
• Winner of First Prize in Quiz conducted at 15th Annual Conference (Haryana branch), (Nov 2009).
• Recognised for Original Work on Methylene Blue Dye based Sentinel Node detection in Breast Cancer.

Research & Publications

• “Significance of Level V node in Neck Dissections in Head & Neck Cancer” – Journal of Surgical Oncology
• “Significance of Level IIb node in Head & Neck Cancer” – Journal of Surgical Oncology

Patient Success Stories & Testimonials

Patient Testimonials:

“Dr. Shakuntala Shah treated my mother for thyroid cancer. Her expertise was evident from the first consultation. She explained everything clearly and patiently. The surgery went smoothly, and we felt completely supported throughout the process. Highly recommend her.” – Priya S.

“Finding out I had breast cancer was terrifying, but Dr. Shah’s calm confidence and detailed explanation of the sentinel node biopsy procedure she pioneered put me at ease. Her surgical skill is excellent, and her compassionate approach made a huge difference in my recovery.” – Aisha K.

“My father underwent complex neck surgery performed by Dr. Shah for advanced oral cancer. Her experience really showed. She managed his case expertly, and her team provided fantastic care. We are incredibly grateful for her dedication.” – Rajesh M.

Treatment Approach & Philosophy

• Patient-Centred Care: Dr. Shah is known for her patient-centric approach, emphasising the importance of understanding each patient’s unique needs, medical history, and personal circumstances. She ensures treatments are tailored to individual health requirements. She believes in educating patients about their conditions, empowering them to take active roles in their health management and make informed decisions.
• Technology & Advancement: Dr. Shah stays updated with advancements in surgical oncology and collaborates with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care. She leverages over three decades of vast clinical experience across a wide range of oncological procedures to provide precise diagnoses and effective treatments.

Consultation Fees & Treatment Costs

Dr. Shakuntala Shah’s consultation fee is approximately ₹1500.

Treatment costs for surgeries (like Head & Neck resection, Mastectomy, SLNB) vary significantly based on the complexity of the procedure, hospital stay duration, required investigations, and other factors. For detailed cost estimates and assistance, please contact Cancer Rounds team.

International Patient Assistance

• Language Support: Dr. Shah is proficient in English, Hindi, and Gujarati. Cancer Rounds team can assist with other language requirements if needed.
• Visa & Travel Assistance: Cancer Rounds provides comprehensive support for international patients, including visa invitation letters, travel arrangements, airport transfers, and accommodation booking assistance.
• Pre-treatment Virtual Consultations: Cancer Rounds can facilitate pre-treatment virtual consultations with Dr. Shah for international patients to discuss their case, review medical records, and plan treatment before travelling.

FAQs

Q 1. What is Dr. Shakuntala Shah’s primary specialisation?

Dr. Shakuntala Shah Surgical Oncologist specialises in Head and Neck Cancer Surgery and Breast Surgery.

Q 2. How many years of experience does Dr. Shakuntala Shah have?

Dr. Shah has over 35 years of extensive experience in the field of surgical oncology.

Q 3. What specific types of cancer does Dr. Shakuntala Shah treat?

Dr. Shakuntala Shah primarily treats Head and Neck Cancers (like oral, throat, thyroid cancers) and Breast Cancer through surgical interventions.

Q 4. What is the significance of the “blue dye technique” Dr. Shakuntala Shah pioneered?

Dr. Shah pioneered the use of Methylene Blue Dye for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) in breast cancer patients in Gujarat. This technique helps identify the first lymph node(s) cancer might spread to, allowing for less extensive underarm surgery compared to traditional methods, reducing side effects like lymphedema.

Q 5. How can I book an appointment with Dr. Shakuntala Shah?

You can book Dr. Shakuntala Shah appointment through medical tourism facilitator, Cancer Rounds.