recipient of several prestigious fellowships , including fellowship of minimal access surgeries at Hyderabad . “Laparoscopy has not only changed the way we perform surgeries, but has also revolutionised patient care. It has shortened the recovery period dramatically. Take, for example, a hernia patient, where we used to give a 10-15 cm long incision for an open surgery, now we give three-four 5-10 mm incisions, which has reduced blood loss and pain with rapid recovery"

Technology, he says, has transformed healthcare delivery, but it has to be chosen carefully for every patient. “Every patient is different and the technology that suits one patient might not be suitable for another. It goes for the latest surgical techniques too.”

Dr Verma says that surgery is his life. “Sending a patient home healthy and happy gives me the ultimate pleasure,” adds the ever- smiling surgeon, who loves to listen to soft romantic songs.