Patient FAQs
Frequently asked questions
80 answers on consultations, hernia, GI and colorectal, gallbladder, pancreatic and kidney transplant surgery with Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai in Delhi. Still unsure? Talk to the clinic team.
Who is Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai?
Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai is a surgeon whose clinical expertise includes minimally invasive surgery, robotic surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, hernia repair, hepatopancreatobiliary surgery, and kidney transplantation. His approach combines surgical assessment with treatment planning based on each patient’s condition.
Is Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai a robotic surgeon in Delhi?
Dr. Rai is a robotic and minimally invasive surgeon trained at AIIMS New Delhi. His practice covers robotic and laparoscopic approaches for hernia, colorectal, gallbladder, pancreatobiliary, and kidney transplant conditions. Call 099586 13771 to confirm where he is currently consulting and which approach suits your condition.
What are Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai’s qualifications?
Dr. Rai holds MBBS, MS in General Surgery, and M.Ch. in Minimal Access Surgery qualifications. His credentials also include FACS, FCLS, and membership of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.
What is Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai’s training and experience at AIIMS New Delhi?
Dr. Rai completed his MS in General Surgery and M.Ch. in Minimal Access Surgery at AIIMS New Delhi and has served as faculty there, mentoring postgraduate residents and M.Ch. fellows. He also holds international fellowship credentials and professional memberships, including FACS and FCLS.
Which conditions does Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai treat?
His areas of practice include hernias, gallbladder and bile duct disorders, pancreatic conditions, colorectal diseases, and conditions requiring kidney transplant surgery. The appropriate treatment depends on the diagnosis, investigation results, and overall health of the patient.
How can I book an appointment with Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai?
To enquire about an appointment, call 099586 13771. Confirm the consultation location, available slots, fees, and any reports you should bring before visiting.
Where can I consult Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai in Delhi?
For the current consultation address in Delhi, call 099586 13771. Confirm the hospital or clinic location when booking so that you arrive at the correct place.
What are Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai’s consultation timings?
Please call 099586 13771 for current consultation timings and appointment availability. Confirm your appointment before travelling, as clinic schedules may change because of surgical commitments.
What is the consultation fee for Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai?
Call 099586 13771 to confirm the current consultation fee. You can also ask whether follow-up appointments have a separate charge and whether any investigations are billed independently.
Does Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai see patients from outside Delhi, such as Delhi NCR or other states?
Patients from Delhi NCR and other states can call 099586 13771 to enquire about a consultation. Before travelling, ask whether your reports can be reviewed in advance, how many days to plan for, and what follow-up arrangements are possible closer to your home.
Is online or video consultation available with Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai?
Availability of online or video consultations can change. Call 099586 13771 to ask whether a teleconsultation is possible for your concern. Some conditions still need an in-person examination, and surgical planning usually requires review of your original reports and scans.
Is health insurance or cashless treatment accepted for surgery?
Coverage depends on the hospital where surgery is performed, your insurer, and your policy. Ask the hospital about cashless facility and pre-authorisation, request a written estimate, and check which items, such as room category, consumables, or robotic charges, your policy covers. Call 099586 13771 for guidance on hospital arrangements.
What should I bring to my surgical consultation?
Bring previous prescriptions, blood test results, ultrasound or scan reports, discharge summaries, and details of any earlier operations. Include a list of your medicines, allergies, and existing health conditions.
What questions should I ask my surgeon before surgery?
Ask about the diagnosis, whether surgery is necessary now, the alternatives, and the proposed approach (open, laparoscopic, or robotic). Also ask about risks, expected recovery, anaesthesia, hospital stay, total estimated cost, and follow-up. Writing your questions down before the visit helps you remember the answers.
Can I request a second opinion about gastrointestinal or hernia surgery?
You can contact the appointment team to request a second-opinion consultation. Bring your diagnosis, scan images, reports, and proposed treatment plan so that the reasons for surgery and possible alternatives can be reviewed.
Does consulting a surgeon mean I will need an operation?
No. A surgical consultation helps establish the diagnosis and assess your treatment options. Depending on the condition, treatment may involve observation, medicines, further investigations, or surgery.
How can I contact Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai for a surgical consultation?
Call 099586 13771 to enquire about a consultation for hernia, gastrointestinal, colorectal, gallbladder, pancreatic, or transplant-related concerns. Confirm the appointment time, location, fee, and required reports before your visit.
Does Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai perform hernia surgery?
Hernia surgery is one of Dr. Rai’s listed areas of expertise. His profile includes laparoscopic and robotic approaches for inguinal, ventral, incisional, hiatal, and recurrent hernias, with treatment selected after individual assessment.
What symptoms can suggest an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia may cause a groin swelling, heaviness, or discomfort that becomes more noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining. Some hernias cause little pain. A clinical examination can help identify the cause of a groin lump.
Can a hernia heal on its own or be treated without surgery?
No. A hernia is a defect in the abdominal wall and does not heal by itself. Exercises, belts, or trusses may ease discomfort for a while but do not repair the defect. Some small, painless inguinal hernias can be monitored safely after assessment, whereas painful or enlarging hernias usually need repair. Seek emergency care if a hernia becomes firm, tender, and cannot be pushed back.
Does every inguinal hernia need immediate surgery?
Not always. Selected patients with minimal symptoms may be offered monitoring after assessment. Painful, enlarging, or complicated hernias may need surgery. The decision depends on the hernia’s features and the patient’s individual risks.
Laparoscopic or open hernia surgery: which is better?
Neither is better for everyone. Laparoscopic repair uses small incisions and, in suitable patients, may mean less postoperative discomfort and a quicker return to routine; it can also allow the other groin to be checked during the same operation. Open repair remains a sound option for some patients, for example those who cannot have a general anaesthetic or who have had certain previous operations. Your surgeon should explain which suits your hernia.
What are TAPP and TEP hernia repairs?
TAPP and TEP are minimally invasive approaches to inguinal hernia repair. Both place mesh in a space behind the abdominal wall, but they reach that space differently. Your surgeon can explain which approach suits your hernia and why.
What is robotic hernia repair (rTAPP)?
Robotic TAPP (rTAPP) is a robot-assisted version of the transabdominal preperitoneal repair. The surgeon controls the robotic instruments while viewing a magnified three-dimensional image, and mesh is placed behind the abdominal wall. It is used for inguinal and some ventral hernias; whether it is appropriate depends on the hernia, your anatomy, and available facilities.
What is the cost of hernia surgery in Delhi?
The cost depends on the type and size of the hernia, whether it is a first or recurrent repair, the surgical approach (open, laparoscopic, or robotic), the mesh used, the hospital and room category, and the length of stay. A reliable figure is possible only after examination and review of your reports. Request an itemised written estimate and check your insurance cover. Call 099586 13771 for details.
How do I choose a hernia surgeon in Delhi?
Consider the surgeon’s training and credentials, experience with your specific type of hernia (including recurrent and complex hernias), familiarity with open, laparoscopic, and robotic techniques, and willingness to explain options and risks. Ask about follow-up arrangements, and feel free to seek a second opinion. Dr. Rai’s listed expertise includes laparoscopic and robotic repair of inguinal, ventral, incisional, hiatal, and recurrent hernias.
Can Dr. Rai assess a recurrent hernia after previous surgery?
Yes. Complex and recurrent hernias are included in his listed surgical expertise. Assessment involves reviewing the earlier operation, current symptoms, and any necessary imaging before discussing repair options.
What is an incisional hernia?
An incisional hernia develops through a weakened area at the site of a previous abdominal operation. It may appear as a bulge near the surgical scar. Treatment planning considers its size, symptoms, previous repairs, and the strength of the surrounding abdominal wall.
Is umbilical hernia surgery needed in adults?
In adults, an umbilical hernia usually does not close on its own and may enlarge over time. Small, painless ones may be observed, while painful or enlarging ones are generally repaired, often with mesh. Seek urgent attention if it becomes painful, tender, discoloured, or cannot be pushed back.
What is a hiatal hernia and when is surgery considered?
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves up through the opening in the diaphragm where the food pipe passes. Many are small and cause no symptoms. Surgery may be considered for persistent reflux not controlled by medicines, a large hernia, or complications such as bleeding or obstruction. Tests such as endoscopy or a barium study often guide the decision.
Is mesh always necessary for hernia repair?
Mesh is commonly used to reinforce hernia repairs, but it is not required in every situation. The recommendation depends on the hernia type, size, infection risk, and other clinical factors. Ask about the benefits, risks, and alternatives for your repair.
When does a hernia require emergency medical attention?
Seek emergency care for sudden severe pain, a firm or tender swelling that no longer goes back in, vomiting, abdominal swelling, or difficulty passing stool or gas. These symptoms may indicate a trapped hernia or bowel obstruction.
What does a gastrointestinal surgeon treat?
A gastrointestinal (GI) surgeon assesses conditions affecting the digestive tract that may need surgical treatment, including the stomach, intestines, colon, and rectum. Dr. Rai’s wider practice also includes hepatopancreatobiliary surgery.
When should I seek a gastrointestinal surgery consultation?
A consultation may be appropriate if you have a diagnosed digestive condition that could require surgery or have been referred by another doctor. Persistent abdominal symptoms, unexplained weight loss, or bleeding also need medical assessment to establish the cause.
What happens during a GI surgery consultation with Dr. Rai?
The consultation generally includes a discussion of symptoms, medical history, medicines, and previous treatment, followed by an examination and review of reports. Further tests may be advised before discussing treatment options and whether surgery is needed.
Which symptoms should make me see a colorectal surgeon?
Consult a doctor for blood in the stool, a persistent change in bowel habits, ongoing abdominal pain or bloating, unexplained weight loss, iron deficiency anaemia, or a family history of bowel cancer. These symptoms have many causes, and most need investigation such as examination, blood tests, imaging, or colonoscopy. Heavy bleeding, severe pain, or inability to pass stool or gas needs urgent care.
Does Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai perform colorectal surgery?
Colorectal surgery is included in Dr. Rai’s clinical profile. His listed expertise includes laparoscopic colorectal resections, selected sphincter-preserving procedures, and complex pelvic surgery. Suitability depends on the diagnosis and detailed assessment.
Can colorectal surgery be performed laparoscopically?
Selected colorectal operations can be performed laparoscopically. The choice depends on the condition, its extent, previous surgery, and the patient’s health. An open approach may be more appropriate in some cases.
Will every patient undergoing colorectal surgery need a stoma?
No. Some patients need a temporary or permanent stoma, while others do not. The likelihood depends on the location and extent of the disease, the operation, and healing risks. Your surgeon should discuss this possibility before surgery.
What is enhanced recovery after surgery, or ERAS?
ERAS is a coordinated approach to recovery involving measures such as patient education, appropriate pain relief, nutrition, and early movement when safe. The recovery plan is adjusted to the operation and the patient’s needs.
Does Dr. Rai provide gallbladder surgery consultations?
Gallbladder surgery, including laparoscopic cholecystectomy, is part of Dr. Rai’s listed expertise. A consultation can help determine whether gallstones or another gallbladder condition require surgery.
What are the symptoms of gallstones?
Gallstones often cause no symptoms. When they do, typical features are upper right or central abdominal pain, sometimes spreading to the back or right shoulder blade, often after fatty meals, with nausea or vomiting. Fever, jaundice (yellow eyes or skin), dark urine, or severe continuous pain need urgent medical attention.
Do all gallstones require surgery?
No. Gallstones that cause no symptoms often do not need treatment. Gallstones causing pain or complications may require gallbladder removal. The recommendation depends on symptoms, investigation results, and individual health risks.
What is laparoscopic cholecystectomy?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is an operation to remove the gallbladder through small abdominal incisions using a camera and specialised instruments. It is a commonly used treatment for symptomatic gallstones when surgery is appropriate.
What is the cost of laparoscopic gallbladder surgery in Delhi?
The cost depends on the hospital, room category, anaesthesia, investigations, length of stay, and whether additional procedures such as bile duct clearance are needed. Ask for a written estimate and check your insurance cover. Call 099586 13771 for details.
How long is recovery after gallbladder removal?
After an uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy, many patients go home within a day or two and return to light activity within days to a couple of weeks, but timing differs by person and by job. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on wound care, diet, lifting, and driving, and report fever, persistent vomiting, worsening pain, or yellowing of the skin.
Can I live normally without a gallbladder?
Yes. The liver continues to make bile, which then flows directly into the intestine. Most people eat normally afterwards. Some notice looser stools or discomfort with very fatty meals for a while, which usually settles or can be managed with dietary adjustments. Discuss persistent symptoms with your doctor.
What does hepatopancreatobiliary surgery mean?
Hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery deals with conditions affecting the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Dr. Rai’s listed expertise includes HPB procedures and biliary reconstruction.
When should I consult a pancreatic surgeon?
A pancreatic surgery consultation may be advised after a scan identifies a pancreatic growth, cyst, or another condition that could require an operation. Bring all imaging and reports so that the diagnosis and available treatment options can be reviewed.
What are the warning signs of a pancreatic problem?
Persistent upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back, jaundice, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, pale stools, new-onset diabetes, or repeated episodes of pancreatitis deserve medical assessment. These symptoms can have many causes, so scans and blood tests are needed to find out. Do not delay evaluation if they persist.
Does every pancreatic condition require an operation?
No. Pancreatic conditions have different causes and treatment needs. Some require monitoring or nonsurgical treatment, while others may need surgery. A specialist assessment is necessary before deciding on the appropriate approach.
What is ERCP and how does it relate to surgery?
ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is a procedure done through an endoscope to examine, clear, or stent the bile and pancreatic ducts, for example to remove a bile duct stone or relieve a blockage. It is often used alongside surgery, before or after, depending on the condition. Whether you need it depends on your scans, blood tests, and symptoms.
Can Dr. Rai assess complex bile duct problems or previous biliary surgery?
His profile includes biliary reconstruction and complex biliary reoperations. Bring previous operation notes, discharge summaries, and scan reports to help with assessment and treatment planning.
Does Dr. Sanjeet Kumar Rai have expertise in kidney transplant surgery?
Kidney transplantation and live donor nephrectomy are included in Dr. Rai’s clinical profile. Contact 099586 13771 to enquire about consultation arrangements and the appropriate transplant centre.
What is a live donor nephrectomy?
A live donor nephrectomy is an operation to remove one kidney from a medically suitable living donor for transplantation. Donor assessment is a separate, detailed process intended to protect the donor’s health and establish suitability.
Can kidney donor surgery be performed laparoscopically?
Laparoscopic and hand-assisted live donor nephrectomy are included in Dr. Rai’s listed expertise. The transplant team decides the appropriate approach after reviewing the donor’s anatomy, medical history, and investigation results.
Who can donate a kidney?
A kidney donor must be a medically fit adult with a compatible blood group and healthy kidneys, and must donate voluntarily without payment. Indian law, the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, regulates donation and in many cases requires approval from an authorisation committee, especially when the donor is not a close relative. The transplant team carries out a detailed medical and psychological assessment before approving a donor.
Is it safe to live with one kidney after donation?
Most healthy donors live normally with one kidney because the remaining kidney enlarges to compensate. Donors need regular follow-up, including blood pressure and kidney function checks, and should avoid unnecessary kidney-harming medicines. Discuss long-term risks and lifestyle advice with the transplant team before donating.
Who may be considered for kidney transplantation?
Kidney transplantation may be considered for suitable patients with advanced kidney failure. Assessment by a transplant team considers overall health, potential benefits and risks, donor options, and the ability to manage ongoing treatment.
What is the cost of kidney transplant in Delhi?
The cost depends on the hospital, room category, donor evaluation, investigations, length of stay, medicines, and any complications. Long-term costs include follow-up visits, tests, and anti-rejection medicines. Ask the transplant centre for a written estimate and check what insurance or government schemes cover. Call 099586 13771 to enquire.
How long are the hospital stay and recovery after a kidney transplant?
Hospital stay and recovery vary. Recipients usually stay in hospital for some days so that kidney function can be monitored and anti-rejection medicines started, and then need frequent check-ups in the first months. Live donors who have laparoscopic surgery often recover faster than after open surgery. Your transplant team will give a plan specific to you.
Is long-term follow-up necessary after kidney transplantation?
Yes. Recipients need regular follow-up to monitor kidney function, medicines, and possible complications. Anti-rejection treatment and ongoing care remain essential even when a patient feels well.
What is an AV fistula for dialysis?
An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein, usually in the arm. It provides access to the bloodstream for haemodialysis. The most suitable access option depends on the patient’s vessels and dialysis plan.
Is an AV fistula better than a dialysis catheter?
For long-term haemodialysis, an AV fistula is generally preferred because it usually lasts longer and carries a lower risk of infection than a catheter. A catheter may be needed temporarily, for example when dialysis must start urgently or while a fistula is maturing. The best choice depends on your vessels, health, and dialysis plan.
Can an AV fistula be used immediately after surgery?
Usually not. A new fistula needs time to develop before it can support dialysis, and some need further assessment or treatment. The dialysis team checks when it is ready. To enquire about an AV fistula consultation, call 099586 13771.
What is minimally invasive surgery?
Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and specialised instruments to perform an operation. Laparoscopic surgery uses a camera to view the inside of the abdomen or pelvis, allowing suitable procedures to be completed without a large incision.
What is the difference between laparoscopic and robotic surgery?
In laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon directly handles instruments through small incisions. In robotic surgery, the surgeon controls instruments through a robotic system. The choice depends on the procedure, anatomy, clinical needs, and available facilities.
Does a robot perform robotic surgery independently?
No. The surgeon controls the robotic instruments throughout the operation. The system assists the surgeon’s movements; it does not independently diagnose the condition or decide how to perform the procedure.
Is robotic surgery suitable for every patient?
No. Suitability depends on the diagnosis, complexity of surgery, previous operations, general health, and other factors. Dr. Rai can discuss whether a robotic, laparoscopic, or open approach is appropriate during the surgical assessment.
Is robotic surgery safe?
Robotic surgery is an established technique and is considered safe in suitable patients when performed by trained surgeons in well-equipped centres. Like any operation, it carries risks such as bleeding, infection, and the possibility of converting to open surgery. Discuss the risks and alternatives specific to your condition.
Is robotic surgery more expensive than laparoscopic surgery?
Robotic surgery often costs more than conventional laparoscopic surgery because of the robotic system and single-use instruments. The difference depends on the hospital and the procedure. Ask your surgeon whether robotic surgery offers a meaningful advantage in your case, and request an itemised estimate for each option.
How do I choose a robotic surgeon in Delhi NCR?
Check the surgeon’s formal training in minimal access and robotic surgery, experience with your specific procedure, and the hospital’s robotic programme and facilities. Notice how clearly the surgeon explains whether robotic surgery is actually needed for you, and ask about expected benefits, risks, costs, and follow-up. Be cautious of promises of guaranteed results.
What are the potential benefits of laparoscopic surgery?
For suitable procedures, laparoscopic surgery may offer smaller wounds, less postoperative discomfort, and a quicker recovery than open surgery. The benefits vary with the operation and the patient’s health; they are not guaranteed for every case.
What are the risks of laparoscopic surgery?
All operations carry risks. For laparoscopic surgery these include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs or blood vessels, reactions to anaesthesia, shoulder-tip pain from the gas used, and the possibility of converting to open surgery. Risks vary with the procedure and your health, and your surgeon should discuss them as part of informed consent.
Can laparoscopic surgery be changed to open surgery?
Yes. A surgeon may need to change to an open approach if it is safer to complete the procedure that way. This possibility should be discussed before the operation as part of informed consent.
How should I prepare for laparoscopic or robotic surgery?
Follow the surgical team’s instructions about fasting, medicines, investigations, and hospital admission. Tell them about all medicines and supplements you take. Do not stop blood thinners or change diabetes treatment without specific medical advice.
How long does recovery take after gastrointestinal or hernia surgery?
Recovery varies with the operation, surgical approach, overall health, and any complications. Ask for guidance specific to your procedure, including when to resume work, driving, exercise, and lifting. Follow your discharge instructions rather than a general timetable.
How soon can I return to work after laparoscopic surgery?
It depends on the operation, the surgical approach, and your job. After many laparoscopic procedures, people with desk jobs may return within days to a couple of weeks, while jobs involving heavy lifting usually need longer. Follow your surgeon’s advice and discharge instructions rather than a general timetable.
What symptoms after surgery need urgent medical attention?
Worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fever, or increasing wound redness or discharge need prompt medical assessment. Chest pain, severe breathlessness, or collapse require emergency care. Do not wait for a routine appointment if serious symptoms develop.
What affects the cost of laparoscopic or robotic surgery in Delhi?
Costs depend on the procedure, hospital, surgical approach, anaesthesia, implants or consumables, length of stay, and additional treatment needs. Request an itemised estimate after assessment and check insurance coverage directly with the hospital and insurer.