Dr. Premkumar Balachandran is a distinguished General and Laparoscopic Surgeon based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, with over 22 years of extensive experience in the medical field. Currently serving as a Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, he has made significant contributions to the advancement of laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques in India and beyond. His expertise spans across gastrointestinal, bariatric, and hernia surgeries, making him a trusted figure in the medical community.
Academic and Professional Qualifications
Dr. Balachandran’s medical journey began with an MBBS from PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, followed by an MS in General Surgery from Sri Ramachandra Medical College. Furthering his specialization, he earned a Master of Minimal Access Surgery (M.MAS) from Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Scotland. He also holds prestigious fellowships and certifications, including:
- FRCS (Glasgow) – Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons, Glasgow
- FICS, FICRS, FIAGES, FAMASI, Dip.ALS, FALS – Fellowships and Diplomas in Minimal Access Surgery, underscoring his dedication to continuous learning and professional development
Current Roles and Affiliations
Dr. Balachandran plays multiple key roles at Apollo Hospitals, including:
- Senior Consultant, Minimal Access, Bariatric, and Robotic Surgery
- Coordinator, Department of General, Gastrointestinal, and Bariatric Surgery
- Clinical Lead, Institutes of Hernia Surgery and Abdominal Wall Surgery
Beyond his clinical commitments, he actively contributes to surgical education as a faculty member at various prestigious institutions, including the Ethicon Institute of Surgical Education and Covidien Centre for Innovation.
Professional Expertise
Dr. Balachandran has amassed significant experience in both clinical and surgical settings:
- Hernia Surgery and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction – Specializing in complex hernia repairs and reconstructive procedures
-
- Bariatric Surgery – Performing weight management procedures tailored to individual patient needs
- Robotic Surgery – Utilizing cutting-edge robotic systems for precision and improved patient outcomes
- Laparoscopic Procedures – Expert in minimally invasive surgeries, including cholecystectomy, appendectomy, and colorectal surgeries
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Balachandran has received numerous accolades for his contributions to medical science, including:
- Chikitsa Rattan Award (2007) for excellence in medical science
- Bharat Jyothi Award (2010) for contributions to education in minimal access surgery
- Mother Teresa Award (2012) for advancements in medicine
- Excellence in Hernia Surgery and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Award (2020)
- Icons of Tamil Nadu Recognition by Times of India (2020)
- Service Excellence Award in Laparoscopic and Hernia Surgery (2020)
Innovations and Contributions
A pioneer in single-incision laparoscopic surgery, Dr. Balachandran performed India’s first single-incision inguinal hernia repair. He was also part of the team that introduced robotic bariatric sleeve gastrectomy and SILS gastric bypass in India. Furthermore, he is among the first four surgeons in the Asia-Pacific region to be certified in the Medtronic Hugo robotic surgery system.
Research and Publications
Dr. Balachandran has authored several peer-reviewed research papers, covering topics such as laparoscopic common bile duct exploration, single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS), and robotic inguinal hernia repair. His contributions to global surgical literature have helped shape best practices in minimally invasive procedures.
Professional Memberships
Dr. Balachandran is an active member of several esteemed medical societies:
- Association of Surgeons of India (ASI)
-
- Indian Medical Association (IMA)
- Independent Medical Practitioners Association of India (IMPAI)
- Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (IAGES)
- Association of Minimal Access Surgeons of India (AMASI)
Patient-Centric Approach
Known for his compassionate and patient-centered care, Dr. Balachandran ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment plans. He emphasizes clear communication, educating patients about their conditions and the proposed surgical interventions to alleviate concerns and foster informed decision-making.
Teaching and Mentorship
Dedicated to fostering the next generation of surgeons, Dr. Balachandran conducts training programs in laparoscopic and robotic surgery. He has been a visiting faculty member at multiple national and international surgical conferences, sharing his expertise on topics ranging from advanced hernia repair to robotic surgery techniques.
With an unwavering commitment to innovation, education, and patient care, Dr. Premkumar Balachandran stands as a pillar in the field of minimal access surgery. His contributions continue to shape the future of surgical advancements, ensuring better outcomes for patients worldwide.
