Gastric Cancer Surgeons in Mumbai — Spotlight on Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

Pooja Vishwakarma
Sep 25
3 min read

Gastric cancer (stomach cancer) is one of the more challenging gastrointestinal malignancies, requiring precise surgical expertise, multidisciplinary care, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. When faced with such a diagnosis, patients often look for the best gastric cancer surgeons in Mumbai to maximize their chance of a cure and quality of life. One name that arises repeatedly in this context is Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan, a senior consultant surgeon specializing in GI (gastrointestinal) and HPB (hepatobiliary / pancreatic) oncology.

In this article, we explore what makes a skilled gastric cancer surgeon, what Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan brings to the table, and what patients should know when choosing care in Mumbai.

Understanding Gastric Cancer & Its Treatment

Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer globally and among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in both men and women. It often presents with vague symptoms — unexplained weight loss, early satiety, persistent vomiting, black stools, or abdominal pain — which delays diagnosis.

Diagnosing gastric cancer typically involves:

Upper GI endoscopy with biopsy
Endoscopic ultrasound
CT / PET-CT imaging for staging
Staging laparoscopy (for locally advanced tumors)

The mainstay of curative treatment is surgical resection (either subtotal or total gastrectomy) combined with a D2 lymphadenectomy (thorough removal of regional lymph nodes). In many cases, a multimodal approach is used, integrating chemotherapy (neoadjuvant or adjuvant) and sometimes radiation.

Because gastric cancer surgery is technically demanding and the margin for error is small, selecting the right surgeon is critical.

What to Look for in a Gastric Cancer Surgeon

When evaluating surgeons for gastric cancer, patients should consider:

Specialization in GI / Oncologic Surgery

Surgeons who focus on gastrointestinal / cancer surgery are more likely to have refined skills in gastrectomy, lymph node dissection, and reconstruction.
Experience & Volume

Higher surgical volume correlates with improved outcomes in complex cancer surgery. A surgeon handling many cases is likely to refine techniques, manage complications better, and plan more precisely.
Access to Advanced Techniques

Laparoscopic, robotic, or minimally invasive surgery for early gastric cancer can offer faster recovery and fewer complications — if the surgeon is experienced in these.
Multidisciplinary Approach

Gastric cancer treatment should be planned by a team that includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, dietitians, and supportive care experts, to ensure optimal sequencing and holistic care.
Patient-Centered Communication

The ability to explain options, trade-offs, expected outcomes, risks, and recovery is vital for patients to make informed decisions.

Why Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan Is Among the Leading Gastric Cancer Surgeons in Mumbai

Credentials & Expertise

Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan is the Director & Senior Consultant Surgeon at the Cancer Surgery Clinic, with a primary focus on hepatobiliary, pancreatic, and GI oncology.
He has performed over 2,000 complex GI cancer surgeries.
He is affiliated with premier Mumbai institutions including Nanavati Max, where he leads GI & HPB surgical oncology programs.
His training includes advanced fellowships and experience in oncologic surgery, ensuring mastery over both open and minimally invasive techniques.

Approach to Gastric Cancer Treatment

At the Cancer Surgery Clinic, every patient is personally evaluated by Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan, and a customized treatment plan is formulated. For gastric cancer, his approach includes:

Determining whether a subtotal gastrectomy or total gastrectomy is suitable depending on tumor location and extent.
Performing D2 lymphadenectomy to improve oncologic control.
Incorporating minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopic or robotic) in early stage or select cases.
Coordinating with medical and radiation oncologists to plan sequencing of chemotherapy and radiotherapy when needed.
Emphasizing nutritional support, patient counseling, and follow-up care.

His emphasis on a team-based, evidence-driven, and patient-first approach gives him an edge among gastric cancer surgeons in Mumbai.

What Patients Can Expect at Cancer Surgery Clinic

When choosing to consult Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan here’s what you may experience:

Detailed Evaluation & Staging

Comprehensive assessment of imaging, biopsy, and general health to map the disease accurately.
Surgical Planning

Based on tumor type and location, Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan selects between subtotal or total gastrectomy, with D2 lymph node removal.
Minimally Invasive Options

Where feasible, he uses laparoscopic or robotic methods to reduce surgical trauma and speed recovery.
Combined Modality Care

Seamless integration with chemo/radiotherapy as needed, with proper timing to enhance outcomes.
Postoperative Support

Nutritional guidance, rehabilitation, regular follow-up and monitoring to detect recurrence early.
Communication & Empathy

Dr. Nagarajan and his team involve patients and families in decision-making, offering clarity about risks, benefits, and realistic expectations.