Oncology

Radiation Oncology

Precision, Innovation, and Compassion in Cancer Treatment

Radiotherapy is a major curative treatment modality and an essential component of cancer care. Nearly 60–70% of all cancer patients require radiotherapy as part of their treatment. At the Valavadi Narayanasamy Cancer Center (VNCC), we are equipped with state-of-the-art radiation technology that ensures precise, safe, and effective treatments.

We are proud to be the first center in Western Tamil Nadu to go fully paperless, with all patient data managed through electronic medical records, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in care delivery.

Advanced Techniques

• HyperArc
• SRS (Stereotactic Radiosurgery)
• VMAT (Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy)
• IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy)
• IGRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy)
• TBI (Total Body Irradiation)

Technology Highlights

• TrueBeam LINAC with SGRT (Identify platform) – First in South India, AI-enabled for enhanced precision
• Trilogy LINAC for advanced radiotherapy delivery
• HDR Brachytherapy Suite with MicroSelectron for targeted internal radiation
• Dedicated 64-slice CT Simulator for accurate treatment planning

Medical Physics Expertise

The Department of Radiation Oncology is supported by a highly skilled Medical Physics team, comprising a Chief Physicist/RSO and three Medical Physicists. Their responsibilities include:

• Advanced radiation treatment planning
• Equipment maintenance and quality assurance
• Commissioning and decommissioning of radiation equipment

Surgical Oncology

The Surgical Oncology Department at VNCC is led by a team of highly experienced and qualified surgical oncologists, supported by skilled anaesthesiologists and dedicated post-operative nursing care. Our focus is on delivering surgical procedures with the least possible morbidity, ensuring optimal recovery and quality of life for our patients.

Western Tamil Nadu’s First – The Most Advanced 4th Generation Da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical System

The Surgical Oncology Department at VNCC is proud to be the first in Western Tamil Nadu to introduce the state-of-the-art Da Vinci Xi 4th Generation Robotic Surgical System. This cutting-edge technology enables surgeons to perform highly complex cancer surgeries with enhanced precision, minimal invasiveness, and reduced recovery time.

Robotic Surgery Achievements

• Successfully performed 300+ robotic procedures, setting a benchmark in advanced cancer surgery.
• Offers scarless and minimally invasive techniques, ensuring reduced morbidity and improved patient outcomes.

By integrating robotic surgery into our multidisciplinary cancer care, VNCC continues to lead the way in combining innovation, expertise, and compassion for the benefit of patients.

Key Surgical Procedures and Expertise:

• Scarless Thyroid Surgery : An advanced minimally invasive technique designed to remove thyroid tumors while preserving aesthetics and reducing post-operative discomfort. This approach avoids visible neck scars, providing patients with both effective cancer treatment and improved cosmetic outcomes.
• Esophageal Cancer: Subtotal esophagectomy with two-field dissection – over 250 cases successfully performed.
• Colorectal Cancer: Sphincter-preserving rectal cancer surgery (low/ultra-low anterior resection).
• Breast Cancer: Breast conservation surgery with sentinel node biopsy to minimize risk of lymphedema.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: Advanced laparoscopic surgeries for colorectal and uterine cancers.
• Head and Neck Cancers: Laryngectomy, laryngo-tracheal resections, major oral resections, and microvascular flap reconstructions.
• Thyroid Cancer: Major thyroid surgeries with tracheal reconstruction.
• Genitourinary Cancers: Radical/partial nephrectomy for kidney cancer, radical cystectomy with neo-bladder reconstruction for bladder cancer.
• Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Limb salvage surgeries preserving function and mobility.
• Penile Cancer: Surgery with sentinel node dissection for inguinal nodes.
• Gynecologic Cancers: Staging laparotomy for uterine and ovarian cancers, Wertheim’s hysterectomy for carcinoma cervix.

Procedures Performed:

Head & Neck

• Thyroidectomy
• Tongue base resection
• Benign base resection
• Radical Tonsillectomy
• Supraglottic laryngectomy
• Vallecullactomy
• Neck Dissection

Gynecology

• Hysterectomy – Benign
• Hysterectomy – Malignant
• Myomectomy
• Endometriosis Resection
• Salpingo-oophorectomy
• Ovarian Cystectomy

Urology

• Radical Prostatectomy
• Partial Nephrectomy
• Nephrectomy
• Radical Cystectomy
• Nephroureterectomy

Thoracic

• Pulmonary Lobectomy
• Esophagectomy
• Thymectomy
• Pulmonary Wedge Resection
• Mediastinal Tumor Resection
• Pulmonary Segmentectomy
• Pleural Decortication
• Thoracic Sympathectomy

Colorectal, GI & HPB

• Low Anterior Resection
• Abdominoperineal Resection
• Sigmoid Colectomy
• Hemicolectomy – Right
• Hemicolectomy – Left
• Total Colectomy
• Whipple
• Gastrectomy
• Liver resection

Haematology and Stem Cell Transplant Unit

Comprehensive Care for Blood Disorders and Advanced Cellular Therapies

The Division of Hematology at VNCC provides specialized care for both adult and pediatric patients with malignant and benign blood disorders. Our team combines clinical expertise with cutting-edge therapies to deliver world-class hematology and transplant services.

Clinical Expertise

• Management of malignant hematological disorders: acute leukemias, multiple myeloma, CML,CLL, lymphomas, histiocytic disorders (LCH, HLH).
• Treatment of benign disorders: anemia, hemoglobinopathies (thalassemia, sickle cell disease), congenital coagulation and platelet function disorders.
• Evaluation and management of thrombotic disorders such as DVT and PTE.
• Care for primary immunodeficiency disorders including SCID, CVID, and others.
• Specialized procedures: bone marrow studies, intra-thecal procedures, central line, PICC line, and Hickmann catheter placements.

Stem Cell Transplantation & Advanced Therapies

• Successfully performed more than 100 bone marrow transplants (adult and pediatric).
• Autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplants, including advanced half-match (Haplo) transplants—a capability offered by only a few centers nationwide.
• Cutting-edge cellular therapies: TCR alpha-beta and CD45 RA depletion.
• CAR-T cell therapy with over 50+ procedures completed, placing VNCC among the leading centers in India for this advanced immunotherapy.

Facilities

• 8-bedded low count ward for the management of neutropenic patients.
• Dedicated apheresis unit for stem cell collection.
• Cryopreservation facility for stem cell storage.
• 4 fully functional HEPA-filtered beds ensuring infection-free care.
• Chemotherapy Day Care facility for patient convenience.
• Comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for anemia and other benign blood disorders.

Robotic Surgery

At GKNM, we understand that surgery is not just a medical procedure—it’s a deeply personal turning point in your journey toward better health. That’s why we bring you Robotic-Assisted Surgery, a method that combines the skill of our expert surgeons with the precision of advanced robotic technology. This approach helps patients heal faster, with fewer scars, less pain, and greater confidence.

With the Da Vinci Xi 4th Generation Robotic Surgical Syste —the most advanced system of its kind and the first in Western Tamil Nadu—we perform complex procedures through tiny incisions, ensuring better outcomes and quicker recovery, while keeping patients at the center of every decision.

What Is Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery is a modern technique that allows surgeons to operate with enhanced precision and control. The robotic system guides tiny instruments through small incisions, reducing pain, scarring, and recovery time. Importantly, it is still your surgeon performing the surgery the robot simply enhances their ability to work more smoothly and accurately.

Our Technology

• Western Tamil Nadu’s First 4th Generation Da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical System
• Successfully performed 300+ robotic procedures across multiple specialties

Areas of Expertise

Colorectal, Gastrointestinal & HPB Surgery

• Low Anterior Resection
• Abdominoperineal Resection
• Sigmoid Colectomy
• Right/Left Hemicolectomy
• Total Colectomy
• Whipple Procedure
• Gastrectomy
• Liver Resection

Thoracic Surgery

• Pulmonary Lobectomy
• Esophagectomy
• Thymectomy
• Pulmonary Wedge Resection
• Mediastinal Tumor Resection
• Pulmonary Segmentectomy
• Pleural Decortication
• Thoracic Sympathectomy

Gynecology

• Hysterectomy (Benign and Malignant)
• Myomectomy
• Endometriosis Resection
• Salpingo-oophorectomy
• Ovarian Cystectomy

Head and Neck Surgery

• Thyroidectomy (including scarless approaches)
• Tongue Base Resection
• Radical Tonsillectomy
• Supraglottic Laryngectomy
• Valleculectomy
• Neck Dissection

Genetics Clinic

Cancer Runs in Families Too – GKNM’s Cancer Genetics Clinic Can Help

When cancer affects a family, it brings not only medical challenges but also fear, uncertainty, and questions about the future: “Will this affect my children?” “Am I at risk too?” These are concerns many families silently carry.

While most cancers occur by chance, about 5–10% are hereditary. This means an altered gene, passed from parent to child, can increase the risk of certain cancers. In such families, cancers may appear at a younger age or affect multiple members across generations.

The Cancer Genetics Clinic at GKNM Hospital, Coimbatore was established to help families find answers. Through genetic testing, we can identify whether someone carries a cancer-related gene mutation. More importantly, the clinic provides guidance and support—from regular check-ups and early screening to preventive strategies that safeguard both the individual and their loved ones.

Who May Benefit from Genetic Testing

• Cancer diagnosed at a young age (under 50 years)
• Two or more close relatives with the same or related cancers
• A person with two different primary cancers
• Family history of rare cancers linked to inherited syndromes
• Presence of a known genetic mutation in the family

Why This Matters

Knowing your genetic risk is not about living in fear—it’s about living with confidence. Genetic testing empowers families with clarity, helps protect children and future generations, and allows doctors to detect cancers earlier, when treatment is most effective.

Palliative Care

Compassionate Support for Patients and Families

At GKNM Hospital, we believe cancer care is not only about treating the disease but also about supporting patients and families through every stage of the journey. Our Palliative Care Unit is dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients facing serious illness, offering relief from pain, symptoms, and emotional distress.

Our Approach

• Holistic care that addresses physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
• Symptom management including pain control, relief from nausea, breathlessness, fatigue, and other distressing symptoms.
• Emotional and psychological support for patients and families coping with uncertainty and stress.
• Guidance in decision-making, helping patients and families understand treatment options and plan care that aligns with their values.
• End-of-life care that emphasizes dignity, comfort, and compassion.

Raksha Hospice

A Legacy of Free, Compassionate Care Since 2001

The Raksha Hospice was inaugurated on 13th June 2001 by His Holiness Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal to commemorate the 50th anniversary of G. Kuppusamy Naidu Memorial Hospital. Since then, Raksha Hospice has been dedicated to providing high-quality palliative care, free of charge, for cancer patients in Coimbatore and surrounding areas.

Services

• A 15-bed inpatient unit staffed by qualified medical personnel offering 24×7 care to terminally ill patients.
• Care that respects human dignity, addressing physical, psychosocial, spiritual, and emotional needs regardless of age, lifestyle, culture, or spiritual belief.
• Day-care services for patients requiring short-term support.
• Comprehensive home care services, with a visiting Community Palliative Care team that includes doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and counsellors. This service helps patients and families cope with care needs in their preferred environment, enhancing comfort and quality of life.

Multidisciplinary Team

• Nurse specialists
• Physician assistants
• Homecare coordinators

Community Oncology

Taking Cancer Awareness and Prevention to Every Corner of Society

At GKNM Hospital, we believe cancer care begins with awareness, prevention, and early detection. Our

Community Oncology Program has been a cornerstone of this mission, reaching thousands of women

across Coimbatore and surrounding regions.

Key Achievements

• Screened more than 18,000 women for cervical, oral, and breast cancers.
• Many women have benefitted from free screening programs, supported by multiple NGOs.
• Subsidized treatment is provided for patients who test positive, ensuring affordability and access.
• HPV vaccination drive: In the past year alone, 1,800 girl children received free HPV vaccination as a preventive measure against cervical cancer.

Regular Screening Camps

• Free oral, cervical, and breast cancer screening camps are conducted at GKNM Hospital (C Block) every Thursday between 2 pm and 4 pm. These camps are organized for many years ensuring continuous access to preventive care.

Community Outreach

• The program extends beyond the hospital, covering rural, panchayat, and tribal areas in and around Coimbatore.
• Teams actively engage in awareness campaigns, educating women about symptoms, prevention, and the importance of early screening.
• By offering services free of cost, the initiative has empowered thousands of women to come forward for screening and care.

Clinical Research and Trial

V N CANCER CENTRE started its clinical research services in 2008. We provide clinical research services for pharmaceutical and biotechnology product development from Phase I to Phase IV. G. Kuppuswamy Naidu Memorial Hospital has an efficient PI group Specialities in major therapeutic areas like Oncology, Cardiology and Endocrinology.

Investigator Initiated Trials

Medical Oncology

A Prospective, Multicenter, Observational Study Examining The clinical Utility Of Canscript In Routine Clinical Practice” - Dr.A.Rajkumar

Agency Sponsored Trials

Medical Oncology

Aspirin for Dukes C and High Risk Dukes B colorectal cancers-An international, Multi centre, Double blind, Randomized Placebo Controlled Phase III Trial – INDOX, Dr.B.Sivanesan

Radation Oncology

1. Resource sparing curative treatment for Rectal Cancer – IAEA, Dr. M. Nagarajan

2. A randomized multicenter trial of accelerated hypo – vs. normo–fractionated radiotherapy for head

and neck squamous cell carcinoma (IAEA-HYPNO trial) – IAEA, Dr. M. Nagarajan

3. Role of Human Papillomavirus Infection and other co-factors in the Aetiology of Head and Neck cancer

India and Europe – WHO/IARC/ICMR, Dr. M. Nagarajan

Company Sponsored Trials

Medical Oncology

1.Prospective, multi-centre, randomized, open-label, two arm, parallel group, active control, comparative clinical study to evaluate efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of XXXXX/ Avastin™ when given intravenously in patients with Metastatic colorectal cancer – Dr. B. Sivanesan

2.A Multi-center, randomized, double-blind, vehicle controlled, phase-2 trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of two concentrations of topical povidone-iodine nail solution (VBP-926) for the treatment of chemotherapy associated paronychia in cancer patient– Dr. B. Sivanesan 3.A Phase II/III Pivotal, Open-label, Randomized, 3Arm Study to Assess the Efficacy of LNP3794 Monotherapy or in Combination with Docetaxel, Compared with Docetaxel Alone, in Patients with RAS Mutation Positive Locally Advanced and Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer – Dr. B. Sivanesan

4.Prospective, multi-centre, randomized, open-label, two arm, parallel group, active-control, comparative clinical study to evaluate efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of XXXX/ Herceptin®(Herclon TM ) when given intravenously in patients with Metastatic HER2-Over expressing Breast Cancer – Dr. A. Rajkumar

Radation Oncology

A Phase III, open-label,Randomized, Multi-center study of the effects of Leukocyte Interleukin, injection[xxxxxx} plus standard of care (Surgery + Radiotherapy or Surgery+Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy) in subjects with Advanced primary Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the oral cavity/Soft palate versus standard of care only – CEL SCI, Dr. M. Nagarajan

Heamato- Oncology

1. Observational Follow up for patient who has received BCD 020 (rituximab, CJSC BIOCAD, Russia) / Mabthera for CD20 positive indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma in BIORIX study – Dr. B. Sivanesan

2.A Phase 3 Randomized, Controlled, Open-Label Study of Selinexor, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone (SVD) versus Bortezomib and Dexamethasone (Vd) in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM) – Dr. B. Sivanesan

3.SADAL: A Phase 2b Open-label Study of Selinexor (KPT-330) in Patients with Relapsed/ Refractory Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) – Dr. B. Sivanesan