My journey in medicine has been one of continuous learning and a deep commitment to improving patient care. After completing my MBBS, MD, and DM, I pursued further international certifications such as EDAIC, EDPM, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education (PGCE). Along the way, I undertook specialized training in Advanced Life Support, European Advanced Paediatric Life Support, and Law and Medical Ethics. This broad skill set has helped me handle complex clinical cases and navigate the ethical challenges that often arise in healthcare.
Since September 2022, I’ve been working as a Consultant in Anaesthesia and Chronic Pain Management at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, primarily at the West Wing of John Radcliffe Hospital. My role involves providing anaesthesia and perioperative care for a wide range of surgical specialties, including neurosurgery, ENT, ophthalmology, urology, and complex procedures such as stroke thrombectomy. I also manage trauma cases, participate in NCEPOD lists, and help prioritize emergencies, ensuring that patients in urgent need of care are looked after.
At the Oxford Pain Management Centre (OPMC), I manage patients with chronic pain, and I’m fortunate to be part of innovative projects that push the boundaries of treatment. One of these is the RADICAL trial, which is evaluating the effectiveness of medial branch radiofrequency denervation for lumbar facetogenic back pain. I’m also collaborating with the University of Oxford’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering on a project to explore the use of virtual reality-based exercise regimens for patients with functional lower back pain. These projects keep me at the cutting edge of pain management research, and I find them incredibly rewarding.
Teaching and mentoring are also key aspects of my work. I serve as a clinical and educational supervisor for anaesthesia trainees and fellows, with a particular interest in neuroanaesthesia and regional anaesthesia. I’m deeply invested in helping the next generation of anaesthetists develop their skills and knowledge. In addition to my clinical and educational duties, I’m actively involved in clinical governance, attending multidisciplinary team meetings, participating in mortality and morbidity reviews, and contributing to trust-wide initiatives aimed at improving care.
As an appraiser, I’m responsible for the annual appraisal of my colleagues, which gives me an opportunity to help them reflect on their achievements and plan their professional development. Recently, I’ve also submitted a business case for awake block surgeries for plastics hand trauma patients, which I believe could significantly improve patient outcomes in that area.
Balancing clinical care, academic research, and teaching keeps me constantly engaged and challenged. I’m passionate about what I do, and I’m always looking for ways to enhance patient care and contribute to advancements in the field of anaesthesia and pain management.