My Interview with Dr. Chintamani Godbole at Gadre Hospital
- Pooja Vishwakarma
- Jan 10
- 4 min read
As a medical journalist, I often find that the most meaningful insights come not from press releases or statistics, but from time spent inside clinics—watching consultations unfold and listening to surgeons explain how they approach complex conditions. During my recent visit to Gadre Hospital in Dadar East, I met Dr. Chintamani Godbole, a gastrointestinal surgeon whose work in digestive and colorectal disorders has drawn attention across Mumbai. It was here that I gained a deeper understanding of what it truly means to practice as a gastrointestinal surgeon in Mumbai, beyond the operating table.
Academic Background and Surgical Training
Dr. Chintamani Godbole professional journey reflects a structured progression through general surgery and advanced gastrointestinal specialization. According to information shared during my visit and publicly available professional details, he holds recognized medical qualifications in surgery, followed by focused training in gastrointestinal and colorectal procedures.
His education and subsequent specialization have equipped him to manage conditions involving the stomach, intestines, colon, rectum, and associated organs. While titles such as Colorectal Surgeon in Mumbai are often used broadly, Dr. Godbole emphasized that the discipline requires continuous learning due to evolving surgical techniques and evidence-based protocols.
Clinical Experience Across Gastrointestinal Conditions
Over years of clinical practice, Dr. Godbole has managed a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders, from benign conditions such as hernias and gallbladder disease to more complex colorectal and intestinal problems. During our conversation, he explained that gastrointestinal surgery is rarely about a single procedure; it often involves long-term evaluation, diagnostic precision, and multidisciplinary coordination.
He described how cases referred for Colorectal Surgery in Mumbai frequently require careful staging, imaging, and non-surgical management before surgery is even considered. This stepwise approach was evident in how consultations unfolded during my time at the clinic—measured, detailed, and patient-specific.
Gadre Hospital: Environment and Clinical Setup
Gadre Hospital, located near Hindmata Cinema in Dadar East, functions as a focused surgical and medical facility rather than a high-volume corporate hospital. The environment appeared streamlined for consultation, diagnostics, and surgical coordination.
During my visit, I observed a system designed to support gastrointestinal care, including access to diagnostic investigations, pre-operative evaluation spaces, and post-operative follow-up protocols. Dr. Godbole noted that such an environment allows surgeons to maintain continuity of care, particularly for patients requiring long-term monitoring.
Understanding Gastrointestinal Surgery in Practice
Gastrointestinal surgery encompasses a broad spectrum of procedures involving the digestive tract. Dr. Godbole explained that surgery is typically recommended only when conservative or medical management is insufficient.
Conditions commonly evaluated include:
Disorders of the colon and rectum
Appendicular disease
Hernias and abdominal wall defects
Gallbladder and bile duct conditions
Intestinal obstruction or inflammation
As a gastrointestinal surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Godbole highlighted the importance of tailoring surgical decisions to each patient’s health status, age, and underlying medical conditions.
Benefits of Gastrointestinal Surgical Intervention
When appropriately indicated, gastrointestinal surgery can offer several clinical benefits. Dr. Godbole outlined these from a strictly medical standpoint:
Relief from chronic pain or obstruction
Resolution of recurrent infections or inflammation
Improved digestive function and quality of life
Prevention of complications associated with untreated disease
He emphasized that benefits are most evident when patients are evaluated early and managed with a structured treatment plan rather than emergency intervention.
Risks and Considerations: A Balanced Outlook
No surgical intervention is without risk, and gastrointestinal surgery is no exception. Dr. Godbole was clear in explaining these risks during patient discussions, a perspective he reiterated during our interview.
Potential risks may include:
Infection or delayed wound healing
Bleeding or anesthesia-related complications
Temporary changes in bowel habits
Need for prolonged recovery in complex cases
He stressed that transparent discussion of risks allows patients to make informed decisions and helps align expectations with realistic outcomes.
Approximate Cost Range: General Perspective
Cost is often a sensitive topic for patients considering gastrointestinal surgery. Dr. Godbole explained that treatment costs vary significantly depending on several factors:
Type and complexity of surgery
Hospital stay duration
Diagnostic investigations required
Post-operative care and follow-up
Rather than quoting fixed figures, he advised patients to view costs as part of an individualized treatment plan, discussed openly during consultations. This approach ensures clarity while avoiding unrealistic assumptions.
Precautions and Aftercare: What Patients Are Advised
Post-operative care plays a crucial role in recovery after gastrointestinal surgery. Dr. Godbole shared several aftercare principles typically advised to patients:
Gradual return to normal diet under medical guidance
Adherence to prescribed medications
Monitoring for symptoms such as fever or persistent pain
Avoiding heavy lifting during the recovery period
Follow-up appointments are emphasized, as they allow early detection of complications and ensure proper healing.
Ethical Practice and Patient-Centered Decision Making
Throughout our conversation, Dr. Chintamani Godbole consistently returned to the idea that surgery should never be rushed. His approach reflects a broader ethical framework within gastrointestinal care—one that prioritizes patient understanding over procedural urgency.
This philosophy is particularly relevant in a city where access to advanced medical care is widespread, but informed decision-making remains essential.
A Journalist’s Closing Reflection (CTA)
As I concluded my visit to Gadre Hospital, I was reminded that gastrointestinal surgery is not defined by complexity alone, but by thoughtful evaluation and long-term patient care. For those navigating digestive health concerns, informed conversations often form the foundation of effective treatment.
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