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1. What does a typical day look like when you start your shift at the hospital or clinic?
I am a Consultant Orthopaedic Oncologist at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, in Birmingham, United Kingdom. My work in Orthopaedic Oncology is rewarding and demanding. It focuses on the complex management of benign and malignant bone and soft tissue sarcomas and metastatic bone disease. Each week, I lead two full-day oncology surgeries that tackle challenging cases involving extremity, pelvis, sacrum and soft tissue sarcomas.
On my non-surgical days, I provide expert care in two specialist sarcoma clinics, serving patients with suspected sarcoma diagnoses from all corners of the United Kingdom and Ireland.
As the fellowship lead in our unit, I am committed to cultivating the next generation of orthopaedic oncologists from around the globe. I passionately share valuable insights and techniques for effective sarcoma management while guiding them in establishing dedicated sarcoma services in their home countries, with the aim of replicating successful global outcomes and making a difference in orthopaedic oncology.
2. Treating patients with life-threatening conditions can be emotionally challenging. How do you manage the emotional toll that comes with your work?
Treating patients with life-threatening conditions is an emotionally challenging endeavor. The gravity of working with complex sarcoma patients, particularly within the pediatric and adolescent age groups, can be profoundly draining.
Fortunately, I have the unwavering support of my wife, who deeply understands the emotional weight of my profession. Together, we prioritise our well-being by immersing ourselves in nature, hiking, and enjoying short jogs.
Moreover, I am passionate about playing badminton, which allows me to engage both physically and mentally. I dedicate time to this sport three times a week, helping me stay refreshed and resilient in the face of the challenges my work presents.
3. Have you ever had a case that changed your perspective on cancer treatment or patient care?
Since I began practicing orthopedic oncology in 2016, I’ve faced numerous challenging cases, but one stands out as particularly transformative when I started as a consultant in 2020. On that day in my clinic, a 20-year-old woman arrived with her mother and her 3-month-old baby. The palpable anxiety in the room was overwhelming, driven by a suspected diagnosis of bone sarcoma. I will never forget the fear etched on her face as I laid out the reality of her situation and our treatment plan. In that moment, she lost her composure, grappling with the terrifying uncertainty of her future, wondering if she would ever regain an everyday life or, worse, if she would survive this dreadful disease. We committed ourselves to her journey, guiding her through every stage of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries. Fast-forward four years, I was filled with immense joy when she walked into my follow-up clinic. Radiating confidence and warmth, her trademark smile shared her remarkable journey and how far she had come. This experience reaffirmed my commitment to compassionate and comprehensive patient care, proving hope and resilience prevail even in the darkest times.
4. How does the approach to cancer surgery differ between developed and developing countries, and what steps can be taken to bridge these gaps?
This question arises frequently: Is there a difference in cancer surgery between developed and developing countries? I would say yes. I have had the privilege of training at two of the world’s premier orthopedic oncology centers: the Tata Memorial Centre in Mumbai, India, and the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Regarding tumor removal, both institutions provide top-tier sarcoma care, demonstrating no significant differences in surgical techniques.
However, the reality starkly shifts when it comes to reconstruction options. This aspect is often prohibitively expensive and primarily dictated by a patient’s financial capabilities and insurance coverage. High-quality implants used in reconstructive surgery can be exorbitantly priced, leaving many patients unable to afford these implants. Fortunately, centers in India have risen to the challenge by developing innovative, cost-effective solutions that achieve comparable outcomes in resource-constrained environments. We must recognise and support such advancements to bridge the gaps in cancer care globally.
5. What is one thing you wish more people understood about cancer treatment and prevention?
In many countries, discussions about cancer remain taboo, but this needs to change. Cancer is indeed a severe disease, yet it is crucial to recognise that early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes. We must prioritise community screening programs that foster open conversations about diagnosis and treatment options. This is essential for effective cancer prevention and management.
6. Do you have any specific habits or rituals during especially risky surgeries that help you stay focused and maintain precision?
Orthopaedic oncology surgery is fundamentally rooted in meticulous preoperative planning, which includes thoroughly reviewing and ensuring that the MRI scans are current. We leave no room for error in our surgical planning to guarantee a seamless intraoperative experience. The night before any major surgery, I prioritise relaxing and going to bed early, ensuring I wake up revitalised and ready for the day ahead. I have a profound belief in the Almighty, and before stepping into the operating room, I take a moment to internalise a few guiding words. This practice empowers me to navigate the potential challenges I will face with confidence and precision during the procedure.
7. Was there a defining moment or personal experience that led you to choose
oncology as your specialty?Since my first year in medical school, I’ve dreamed of becoming an orthopedic surgeon and have put in a lot of hard work to make that dream a reality. However, after finishing medical school, a personal experience changed everything and sparked my interest in oncology. During my orthopedic residency, I got the chance to learn about orthopedic oncology. This experience was an eye-opener for me – it showed me that I could combine my love for orthopedic surgery with a focus on oncology. This realisation truly set me on an exciting journey I’m passionate about!
8. What’s a piece of advice you would give to medical students or young surgeons interested in pursuing oncology?
My biggest tip is to focus on getting a solid grasp of the basics. Building a strong foundation during your MBBS years is essential for a fulfilling career in surgery or medicine. Oncology can be physically and emotionally challenging, so having a sound support system around you is essential. And don’t forget to take time for yourself—pursue hobbies and interests outside of work. It helps keep everything in balance!
