-
admin
- May 31, 2025
Do Women Make Better Cancer Surgeons? Insights from Dr. Pallabika Mandal
The surgical field, historically male-dominated, is undergoing a quiet revolution. More and more women are stepping into leadership roles, mastering complex procedures, and reshaping perceptions in healthcare. Among them is Dr. Pallabika Mandal, a distinguished female surgical oncologist in kolkata, trained at AIIMS New Delhi, and currently practicing in Kolkata.
This blog explores whether women make better cancer surgeons through insights, research findings, and the inspiring journey of Dr. Pallabika Mandal, one of the top women cancer surgeons in Kolkata.
Women in Surgical Oncology: A Rising Force
Surgical oncology demands precision, stamina, emotional intelligence, and decision-making under pressure. For years, it was presumed that women lacked the “grit” for surgery. But recent research and real-world outcomes are telling a different story.
Global Trends
- According to the American College of Surgeons, female surgeons now make up over 35% of residents in surgical specialties, with oncology witnessing one of the steepest increases.
- In India, although female representation in surgical fields still lags behind global averages, cities like Kolkata are seeing an encouraging shift with more patients actively seeking female surgical oncologists.
Patient Preferences Are Changing
Many female cancer patients report a greater comfort level when being treated by women surgeons, especially for breast, gynecologic, or gastrointestinal cancers. Empathy, communication, and patient involvement are cited as reasons.
Who is Dr. Pallabika Mandal?
Dr. Pallabika Mandal, M.Ch. in Surgical Oncology from AIIMS New Delhi, is a name that’s become synonymous with trust and excellence in cancer care across Eastern India.
Credentials at a Glance:
- Education: M.Ch. in Surgical Oncology from AIIMS, one of the most prestigious medical institutions in India.
- Current Practice: Available at Peerless Hospital and Pathkind Labs, Kolkata.
- Specialization: Gastrointestinal cancers including esophageal, stomach, gallbladder, pancreatic, hepatobiliary, and colorectal malignancies.
- Experience: Known for her evidence-based approach and compassionate care model.
If you’re looking for women cancer surgeons in Kolkata, Dr. Pallabika Mandal stands out as a beacon of expertise and ethical medical practice.
Do Women Actually Perform Better in Surgery? What Research Says
Let’s explore the science behind this hotly debated question.
1. Patient Outcomes
A landmark 2017 study published in BMJ found that patients treated by female surgeons had slightly lower 30-day mortality rates compared to those treated by male surgeons. The findings were consistent across various types of surgeries.
2. Team Dynamics
Women surgeons often score higher in teamwork, communication, and patient-centered care—factors that can significantly influence surgical outcomes.
3. Adherence to Protocols
Female surgeons tend to be more protocol-driven, minimizing the risk of deviation during complex surgeries.
“It’s not about being better or worse. It’s about individual integrity, commitment to patient care, and constantly updating one’s skills. Gender should never define competence,” — Dr. Pallabika Mandal
The Emotional Intelligence Factor in Cancer Surgery
Cancer surgery isn’t just about removing tumors—it’s about guiding patients through one of the toughest journeys of their lives.
Dr. Pallabika Mandal emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in surgical oncology:
- Empathy with patients and families
- Communicating treatment plans in understandable language
- Being present before, during, and after surgery
These qualities often come more naturally to female practitioners, giving them a unique edge in building trust.
Why Patients Are Choosing Female Surgical Oncologists in India
Here are some key reasons why patients—especially women—prefer consulting female surgical oncologists like Dr. Pallabika Mandal:
1. Comfort and Dignity
Many women feel more at ease discussing intimate symptoms and undergoing physical examinations with a female doctor.
2. Shared Experiences
A female oncologist may better understand the emotional impact of issues like mastectomy, hysterectomy, or colostomy, not just clinically, but personally.
3. Holistic Care
Studies show women doctors are more likely to engage in shared decision-making, preventive counseling, and psychosocial support.
Surgical Expertise: Beyond the Stereotype
Dr. Pallabika’s surgical portfolio spans high-risk cancer surgeries, minimally invasive procedures, and complex multi-organ resections. Her case studies include:
- Laparoscopic gallbladder cancer resections
- Pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic cancer
- Total gastrectomy for stomach cancer
- Esophagectomy with reconstruction
Her work is not just limited to technical precision but extends to pre-surgical counseling and post-operative recovery planning, ensuring comprehensive cancer care.
Role Model for Aspiring Women Surgeons
For young medical students and surgical residents, Dr. Pallabika Mandal serves as a role model who has shattered gender barriers with grace and grit.
She is often invited to seminars and workshops to speak about:
- Women in surgical careers
- Balancing professional and personal life
- Ethical decision-making in oncology
“Surgery is not a man’s job. It’s a calling—for anyone with the courage to answer it,” says Dr. Mandal.
Common Questions Patients Ask Dr. Pallabika Mandal
Q1: Is it safe to undergo GI cancer surgery in Kolkata?
Yes. With specialists like Dr. Pallabika Mandal and advanced infrastructure in hospitals like Peerless, Kolkata offers safe and standardized cancer surgeries.
Q2: Does gender affect surgical outcome?
Surgical outcomes depend more on experience, specialization, and hospital support—not gender. However, many studies show female surgeons have slightly better mortality and complication rates in some scenarios.
Q3: How to consult Dr. Pallabika Mandal?
You can consult her at:
- Peerless Hospital, 360 Panchasayar, Kolkata (5–7 PM)
- Pathkind Labs, near AMRI Hospital, Sector 3, Salt Lake
Contact: +91 9957560181 / +91 8787432741
Final Thoughts: It’s About Skill, Not Gender
The idea that women may make better cancer surgeons isn’t about competition—it’s about breaking outdated assumptions and celebrating diversity in healthcare.
Dr. Pallabika Mandal, a female surgical oncologist trained at AIIMS, is a shining example of what happens when talent meets opportunity, regardless of gender.
Whether you’re a patient looking for compassionate and expert cancer care or a young woman dreaming of a surgical career, let her journey inspire yours.