Surgeons recall first experience of spearheading a surgery: ‘When the OT lights came on, I felt butterflies in my stomach’

The first day of a doctor’s clinical practice is filled with anticipation as they apply their theoretical knowledge to real-life situations. While new doctors may be confident in their surgical skills, earning patient trust requires empathy and knowledge. Experienced surgeons advise aspiring surgeons to embrace challenges, persevere through long hours, and continue learning.

On National Doctors Day, celebrated on July 1 in remembrance of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy, renowned physician and second chief minister of West Bengal, indianexpress.com spoke to surgeons across various fields about their first experiences leading a surgery in the operating theatre (OT). Read the edited excerpts below.

Dr Bharati Dhorepatil, consultant infertility expert, NOVA IVF fertility

Setting up my solo practice and meeting new patients was both challenging and gratifying. On that special day, I successfully counseled a patient needing a laparoscopy for infertility. Despite my nervousness, I convinced her of my ability, and her confirmation of the surgery felt like winning a gold medal, validating my degree. This experience was crucial in establishing my professional abilities and emphasising the importance of comprehensive patient care.

https://images.indianexpress.com/2020/08/1x1.png Dr Bharati Dhorepatil

For the past 35 years, patient counseling has been vital to my profession. I approach every consultation with compassion and consideration, ensuring my patients feel heard and understood. This dedication has fostered strong trust and compassion with those I’ve treated. My journey from the first day to now has been marked by continual learning and unwavering commitment to patient care.

Dr Anup Taksande, consultant interventional cardiologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road

My first visit to the cardiac cath lab––where cardiac procedures like angiography, angioplasty, and pacemakers were performed––was in 2007 at Sion Hospital. I joined the DM cardiology course under Dr Ajay Mahajan, head of the department then. He was a continuous source of inspiration and guidance.

Dr Anup Taksande

In December 2007, I assisted and performed my first angiography with a senior colleague, Dr Prabhakar. Wearing the cath lab lead apron and performing the procedure was a new experience. With the guidance of seniors and Dr Mahajan, I successfully catheterised the left and right coronary arteries. The supportive environment made the experience exciting and anxiety-free. After the procedure, I felt a sense of accomplishment and we did the femoral artery compression. I still carry the learning from that day.

Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar

Going to the OT without senior supervision was nerve-wracking. I had a pregnant patient who had two previous miscarriages and was pregnant for the third time. After taking all precautions and conducting proper antenatal checkups, we wheeled her in for delivery. When the OT lights came on, I felt butterflies in my stomach, but I was confident in my abilities.

Dr Surabhi Siddhartha

With the scalpel in my hand, I performed my first delivery. It took time, but the OT was filled with joy when the newborn baby cried. No one can understand the palpitations I had when I first touched the scalpel. More than 15 years have passed since that day, and I still remember every moment. When I see my juniors handling their first cases, I always say, “Sab ho jayega” (everything will be alright).

Dr S Vidyadhara, chairman and HOD – spine surgery and consultant, robotic spine surgery, Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru

As a young spine surgeon, 25 years ago, I embarked on a posterior lumbar fusion procedure that forever altered the course of my professional journey. Back then, this surgery was cutting-edge in spinal medicine. I vividly recall the meticulous steps: the careful tissue dissection, precise placement of bone grafts and instrumentation, and the delicate task of ensuring spinal alignment—all demanding utmost focus, precision, and a deep understanding of spinal anatomy.

Seeing years of training culminate in success brought immense satisfaction and a deep sense of purpose. That day affirmed my commitment to alleviating patient suffering through spinal surgery—a calling I continue to cherish.

Dr S Vidyadhara

The memory of that first surgery remains a constant inspiration, reminding me of the privilege and responsibility of caring for the human spine, our foundation of movement and vitality.

Dr Karishma Kagodu, plastic and cosmetic surgeon, founder of Dr Karishma Aesthetics, Bengaluru

When I first stepped into the operating theatre 15 years ago, I realised why it is called a ‘theatre’ — the stage is set: instruments are props, surgeons, nurses, and technicians are the artists . The room is the stage. And, I felt overwhelmed with equal part excitement and nervousness.

Dr Karishma Kagodu

I took a deep breath, steadying myself to assist my first surgery, as I watched in awe the delicate dance of surgery unfold before me, feeling privileged to be a part of this life-saving art. At that moment, as I felt the warmth of the patient’s lifeblood flowing beneath my fingers. I knew I had found my calling. The operating theatre had become a sacred space for me, a place where I could truly make a difference in transforming and saving lives.

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