Dr. Shradha Maheshwari: Pioneering Neurosurgeon Redefining Brain and Spine Care in Mumbai
Dr. Shradha Maheshwari is an exceptional figure in the modern field of neurosurgery and is, many would argue, one of the most influential medical professionals in India when it comes to inspiring neurosurgeons. Dr. Maheshwari is among one of very few female neurosurgeons in India and is the third female neurosurgeon in Mumbai. She has demonstrated excellence and perseverance in her path to becoming a neurosurgeon. Dr. Maheshwari works as a neurosurgeon at S L Raheja Hospital (A Fortis Associate) in Mumbai. She has more than 20 years of medical experience and more than 13 years of specialist experience as a neurosurgeon and spine surgeon. This is a detailed profile of a medical professional by Capsule Info, an initiative to showcase medical professionals who impact healthcare in India.
Early Education and Medical Training
Dr. Maheshwari’s medical career started with her MBBS, followed by a DNB in Neurosurgery, a recognition she has garnered as one of the top specialists in the country. During her earlier experiences as a doctor, she trained at institutions renowned for their commitment to clinical training and surgical standards.
She received training at KEM Hospital - one of the most prestigious teaching hospitals in Mumbai. Following that, she worked as an Assistant Professor at BYL Nair Hospital and TN Medical College both as a surgeon and educator to aspiring doctors.
Her background in training, academics, clinical experiences, helps contribute to her skillset and perspective, both elements, have become the hallmark of her surgical practice.
Professional Journey and Achievements
What truly distinguishes Dr. Shradha Maheshwari is her trailblazing status. She is the first woman spinal surgeon in Mumbai as well as the only female neurosurgeon in India to open a Neurosurgery Department in a government medical college. This gesture demonstrates Dr. Maheshwari's commitment to enhancing neurosurgical care and access to education beyond private practice.
Dr. Maheshwari's surgical acumen is extensive. She has performed numerous complex procedures in both the brain and spine fields, and she is the first surgeon in Mumbai and the second in India to perform surgery for atlanto-axial dislocation in the anterior position. This is a fragile procedure that attempts to stabilize the upper cervical vertebral bodies, which is emblematic of a key point in spinal surgery.
Specializations
Dr. Maheshwari addresses a variety of neurological and spinal disorders. She has a special interest in:
- Skull Base Surgery - complex procedures involving the base of the skull and brain.
- Pediatric Neurosurgery - evaluating congenital and developmental neurological conditions in children.
- Minimally Invasive Brain and Spine Surgery - procedures that allow for quicker recovery and less surgical trauma.
Her lens combines precision and compassion. She values patient comfort and strives to offer an early diagnosis and conservative management whenever possible.
Leadership and Contributions
In addition to her surgical work, Dr. Maheshwari is also involved in changing the landscape of the neurosurgical community in India. She is an Executive Committee Member and Treasurer of the Neuro Spinal Surgeons Association (NSSA). She has also been appointed the Chair of the Women's Wing of the NSSA, as she promotes more avenues and enhanced representation of women in the field of neurosurgery, which has traditionally been male-dominant.
Her efforts have encouraged many young doctors to consider a career in neurosurgery. During a recent talk with medical school students, she said: