“My journey into the world of medicine, particularly spine surgery, began with deep personal experiences and a family legacy. Growing up, I was always intrigued by the complexities of human diseases. This fascination was fueled by observing my grandfather, a renowned physician in Guntur, whose dedication to patient care and impact on the community left a lasting impression on me.
During my MBBS studies, a major event in my family shaped my career path. My grandmother underwent surgery for a spine-related issue, and understanding her treatment and recovery sparked my deep curiosity about spine surgery. My mentors at NIMS Hyderabad, where I pursued my MS in Orthopaedics, and the spine fellowship mentors in Mumbai played a crucial role in nurturing this interest. Their guidance and the extensive hands-on experience I gained with numerous spine cases further cemented my passion for this field.
Every case I encounter as a spine surgeon presents a unique challenge, especially those that fall outside textbook diagnoses. Staying up-to-date with the latest medical knowledge is crucial, and I engage in continuous professional development through conferences, workshops, and ongoing education. Attaining surgical skill, particularly in minimally invasive (key-hole) surgery, requires enormous dedication and practice. Overcoming the challenges during the initial years of surgical practice through guidance and persistence has been among the most demanding aspects of my career. These experiences shape our abilities and ensure we provide the best possible care to our patients.
As a doctor, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for me, both personally and professionally. Spine surgeries are physically demanding, and being physically fit helps me perform at my best. I emphasize the importance of fitness and health to my patients, practicing what I preach through regular activities like running, cycling, and playing badminton. Participating in marathons keeps me physically fit and mentally refreshed. Equally important is the time I spend with my family, which grounds me and provides a strong support system.
In my work, I instill personal values of empathy and holistic patient care. My patient-centric approach ensures that any treatment, whether medication or surgery, positively impacts the patient’s overall health. Socrates’ words, “If you seek health, look at your spine first,” highlight the fundamental role of a healthy spine in achieving a healthy life. I advise prioritizing both physical and mental health, taking care of your spine through regular exercise, proper posture, and ergonomics, and managing stress to maintain a positive outlook.
One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned from my practice is the importance of empathy and holistic patient care. While technical expertise and surgical skill are essential, truly understanding and addressing the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of my patients is equally crucial.
My commitment to advancing health-care is driven by the desire to provide my patients with the most effective and cutting-edge treatments available. The ever-growing technical advancements in spine surgery, including sophisticated gadgets like navigation systems and robotic surgery, have revolutionized the field. These technologies enhance the precision of surgeries, leading to better outcomes for patients. I am particularly proud of my training and practice in minimally invasive (key-hole) spine surgery, which I have been performing for the past six years. This approach has significantly increased the safety, efficacy, and postoperative recovery of spine surgeries, allowing many to become day-care procedures.
In my field, I define success by seeing my patients recover and return to their normal lives, whether through simple medication or complex surgery. Success means restoring their mobility, alleviating pain, and improving their overall quality of life. What motivates me to continue pushing boundaries is the desire to provide the best possible care and outcomes for my patients. This drive is fueled by staying academically active and engaging in research, allowing me to innovate and advance the field of spine surgery. By embracing new techniques, technologies, and treatment approaches, I ensure my practice remains at the forefront of medical excellence, ultimately benefiting my patients and the broader medical community.”
- Dr Praveen Goparaju, Spine Surgeon