AKU Department of Surgery, Pakistan

10/06/2026

It feels like yesterday when two sections of the Department of Surgery embarked on a new journey as independent departments.

One year has passed since the Department of Orthopaedics and the Department of Dentistry & Oral Health Sciences branched out from the Department of Surgery, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of academic medicine at The Aga Khan University.

Reflecting on the journey, Professor Saleem Islam, Chair of the Department of Surgery, recounted how the idea first emerged.

“The whole thing started around four years ago when I stood in a room and proposed something during a talk. The Department of Surgery had grown tremendously. It was unrecognizable from the department that existed when I was a medical student many years ago. Perhaps it had become larger than a department should be in this day and age. There were two sections that stood out—Orthopaedics and Dentistry. I felt they deserved their own identity, their own leadership, and control over their futures and destinies. The right thing for our patients, trainees, and faculty was to let them go.”

Professor Mansoor Ali Khan, Chair of the Department of Orthopaedics, acknowledged the leadership and support that made the transition possible. He expressed gratitude to the then Dean of the Medical College, Professor Adil Haider, the current Dean, Professor Karim Damji, and Professor Saleem Islam for their vision and guidance throughout the process.

For Professor Farhan Raza Khan, Chair of the Department of Dentistry & Oral Health Sciences, the change was never about separation.

“I would consider it more as development—an evolution, a natural process that allows people to grow, express themselves, develop, and deliver better patient care to the people we serve. It is all for the betterment of the institution and for the betterment of society.”

The celebration was attended by Dean of the Medical College, Karim Damji, who commended both departments for the remarkable progress they have achieved in their first year of independence.

“When you look back, these departments were under Surgery for more than four decades. The success that now exists is a function of that history, evolution, and growth. It is a tribute to you in these new departments that you have managed to do so well.”

The anniversary event concluded with an engaging panel discussion filled with insightful reflections, light-hearted moments, and laughter. The celebrations ended with a cake-cutting ceremony, marking not only a year of independence but also the beginning of many more years of growth, innovation, and excellence in patient care, education, and research.

09/06/2026

Heavy, Aching Legs? It Could Be Varicose Veins.
𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐕𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐬 are enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs and feet. They develop when damaged vein valves allow blood to pool instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart.

Common symptoms include:
• Aching or heavy legs
• Swelling in the feet or ankles
• Burning, throbbing, or cramping sensations
• Itching around the veins
• Visible bulging veins

Risk factors include ageing, prolonged standing, obesity, pregnancy, family history, and physical inactivity.

While varicose veins are often not dangerous, they can gradually worsen over time, causing discomfort, swelling, skin changes, and reduced mobility.

The good news is that modern vascular treatments are minimally invasive and highly effective.

Our vascular experts offer advanced treatment options, including:

• Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A thin catheter uses heat energy to seal the diseased vein, redirecting blood flow to healthy veins.

• Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy: A specialised foam is injected into affected veins under ultrasound guidance, causing them to close and gradually be absorbed by the body.

If you experience persistent leg pain, heaviness, swelling, or visible varicose veins, it may be time for a vascular evaluation.

To book an appointment with our Vascular Surgeons, call:
📞 +92 21 111 911 911

08/06/2026

05/06/2026

After two wonderful years with the Department of Surgery, it is time to say goodbye to our incredible manager, Dr. Kinza Bhutto.

We thank her for being the kind of leader who doesn't just manage, but mentors. She has helped us navigate challenges and always had time to listen when needed. She was a pro at solving last-minute crises before anyone else even noticed them and at keeping all of us gently (and sometimes firmly) on track. Somehow she also made it look effortless. Many of us are better professionals because of her mentorship and belief in people.

Seeing Dr. Kinza without a coffee cup was about as rare as finding a free meeting slot in everyone's calendar. In fact, if you really wanted a meeting with her, offering coffee was often your best strategy. We are still not entirely convinced that the department ran on strategic planning alone.

On behalf of the Department of Surgery, thank you, Dr. Kinza, for your dedication, friendship, and leadership. We wish you every success, happiness, and plenty of great coffee in this new chapter.

04/06/2026

Shaikh Muhammad Saeed traveled more than 1,500 kilometers to seek treatment for a carotid body tumor.

In 2023–24, he noticed a lump gradually developing on his neck, which began affecting his daily life and causing concern. After consulting an ENT specialist in his hometown, he was advised to seek treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.

He booked an appointment with Dr. Zia Ur Rehman, who evaluated his condition and took over his care. Following a successful procedure, Shaikh Saeed recovered well and was discharged within a week.

Today, he has returned to his hometown, free from the burden of the tumor, and is back to living his normal life.

01/06/2026

27/05/2026

From all of us at the Department of Surgery, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful and blessed Eid ul Adha. ✨

May this Eid bring peace, good health, compassion, and happiness to every home. As we celebrate the spirit of sacrifice and togetherness, let us also remember the importance of kindness, care, and looking after one another.

Eid Mubarak! 🌙

25/05/2026

This photograph represents centuries of combined surgical expertise.

On Saturday, May 23, the brilliant minds of the Department of Surgery gathered at Avari Towers for the Strategic Retreat 2026 with one shared purpose: shaping the future of surgery through short and long-term planning. A future where exceptional patient care remains at the center of every decision.

Each section presented its vision for pushing boundaries in patient care, advancing surgical education for the next generation of surgeons, and contributing meaningful research to the global medical community. Every goal discussed during the retreat was aligned with AKU’s core values of IQRA — creating Impact, improving Quality, building Relevance, and increasing Access.

Alongside strategy and planning, the retreat also focused on faculty wellness. Because behind every surgery, every clinic, and every life saved are individuals who dedicate immense energy to caring for others. Dedicated wellness sessions created space for faculty members to pause, recharge, and prioritize their own well-being so they can continue providing the highest level of care to their patients.

25/05/2026

Beware of sharp blades!
As Eid ul Adha approaches, please be careful while handling knives and other sharp objects. Every year, hospitals report serious injuries during the festivities, some requiring reconstructive procedures.

At Aga Khan University Hospital, the plastic surgery team has helped patients by providing immediate and specialized care in such emergencies. However, prevention is always better than treatment.

As we celebrate this occasion, let us stay mindful, handle tools carefully, and prioritize safety for ourselves and our loved ones.

Incase of emergency contact us at 021-111-911-911

PC: AFP/Asif Hassan

23/05/2026

Drum circle at the strategic retreat