In the ever-evolving field of medicine, where innovation is constant and the patient is the main focus, there is a select group of frontier surgeons who are not only managing disease but also shaping the future of medicine. Dr Afzal Anees is among this group of trailblazing surgeons. He is a general surgeon who is regarded as an expert in Gastrointestinal Surgery with a strong focus on Colorectal Surgery. His experience includes open and endoscopic surgery, demonstrating his innovative techniques and multifaceted practice.
Dr. Afzal’s journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to learning and excellence in surgical care. Starting with specialized training in Gastrointestinal Surgery, he went on to complete a Clinical Fellowship in Minimal Invasive Surgery at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. His passion for innovation and precision has led him to train and observe at some of the country’s leading medical institutions, including SGPGI Lucknow, Tata Memorial Centre Mumbai, and IMS-BHU Varanasi. With focused expertise in Hepato-Biliary and Colorectal Surgery, as well as advanced endoscopic procedures like ERCP, Dr. Afzal blends cutting-edge techniques with compassionate, comprehensive patient care.
An Eternal Learner
More than a surgeon, he is an eternal learner, updating his knowledge every time to provide the most advanced care possible. He has taken on learning new techniques like the Minimal Invasive Procedure for Hemorrhoids and trained at workshops on Laparoscopic Solid Organ Surgery, keeping himself at the forefront of surgical innovation. Dr Afzal is not just a surgeon to note in 2025; he is a standard bearer for excellence, a visionary who embodies the eternal quest for knowledge and the inexorable pursuit of a healthier future.
Mr. Afzal first emerged from his studies in 1994 with a Master’s in surgery, ready to start his life. His journey led him to a place he would come to consider home, the Department of Surgery at J N Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, a place where he would ascend the ranks to a prominent Professor position and Senior Surgical Consultant.
His ambition was matched only by his dedication, leading to a long list of accolades that read like a masterclass in surgical excellence. He was awarded prestigious fellowships, including FRCS, FACS, FICS, FAIS, FMAS, FAIGES, and FACRSI. In 2008, his commitment to education was recognized with the Outstanding Young Surgical Teacher Award by the Association of Surgeons of India, UP Chapter, an early sign that his work would extend far beyond the operating table.
An Intellectually Illuminating Mind
Dr Afzal’s intellectual contributions were as significant as his surgical prowess. He authored or co-authored 71 scientific research papers in high-impact journals and presented 41 papers at various academic conferences. He nurtured the next generation of surgeons, supervising 44 theses for MS/MD dissertations. His expertise was so highly regarded that he served as an examiner for various medical degrees at institutes across India.
While his knowledge was vast, his true passion lay in a specific domain: Gastrointestinal and Surgical Oncology, with a special focus on colorectal surgeries. Dr Afzal became a master of both open and laparoscopic procedures, performing more than 7,800 surgical procedures, a significant number of which were proctological and colorectal. He also mastered the delicate art of therapeutic endoscopy, including ERCP, banding, polypectomies, dilatation, and stenting, performing over 4,500 diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopies.
His dedication to the field led him to establish a Colorectal Special Clinic at J N Medical College & Hospital, a place where his expertise was concentrated to provide specialized care. Dr Afzal’s story is one of a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a steadfast commitment to his craft. He built a career not just on the number of procedures he performed, but on the profound impact he had on the lives of his patients and the surgical community he helped shape.
The Steady Ascent to the Top
Dr Afzal’s ascent at J N Medical College was a methodical and determined climb. His journey began as a Clinical Registrar in 1995, a role he held through 1997, where he gained foundational experience. He then transitioned to the role of Lecturer in September 1997, a position he held for four years, solidifying his teaching skills and surgical knowledge. His relentless pursuit of excellence propelled him to Senior Lecturer in 2001, and then to Reader in 2006.
The milestones continued to accumulate, marking his path with significant recognition. In 2008, his dedication to teaching was honored with the Young Outstanding Surgical Teacher award from the Association of Surgeons of India (UP Chapter). This was a prelude to the numerous prestigious fellowships that would follow, including the Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow (FRCS), Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and multiple others from national and international associations.
By July 2009, he was an Associate Professor, a role he held for three years before achieving the pinnacle of his institutional career in July 2012, becoming a full Professor in the Department of Surgery. His teaching experience is a testament to his commitment: 33 years at the undergraduate level and 27 years at the postgraduate level.
The Pillars of Scientific Contribution
His career was built on three core pillars: publishing, research, and collaboration. Of his 71 scientific publications, a staggering 58 were featured in international journals, demonstrating his global impact. He has presented 20 working papers and delivered 21 special guest lectures, sharing his expertise with the wider academic community. His mentorship has been instrumental to the next generation of surgeons, supervising 39 theses for MS/MD degrees, with four more currently under his guidance, including a PhD.
Dr Afzal’s commitment to advancing surgical science is further evidenced by his academic collaborations. He led a UGC-approved research project on the prognostic significance of the HER2/neu oncogene in colorectal cancer. His work extended into the assessment of cancer growth dynamics, in collaboration with the radiophysics and nanotechnology centers at AMU. Most recently, he has been leading an ICMR project focused on characterizing gut dysbiosis in gastrointestinal malignancies and exploring the role of probiotics in therapeutic outcomes for patients undergoing chemoradiation. His story is one of a tireless scholar and a masterful surgeon, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the field.
Shaping the Future of Care
Dr Afzal’s influence extends beyond the classroom and the operating room. At J N Medical College, he became a pioneer, spearheading the introduction of advanced surgical procedures. He was among the first to bring techniques like Stapler/Mechanical Anastomosis and MIPH/PPH to the institute. Recognizing the specialized needs of his patients, he established and runs a dedicated Colorectal Clinic. His expertise in advanced gastrointestinal surgeries, including complex procedures like Esophagectomy, gastrectomy, and Whipple’s, solidified his reputation as a leader in the field. He also broadened the therapeutic scope of the institution by introducing a range of endoscopic procedures, including ERCP, polypectomy, and stenting.
His reputation as an expert transcends his own institution. He has served as an expert for both the Public Service Commission of UP and J&K, a testament to the trust and respect he commands within the medical community.
A Leader Beyond the Scalpel
Dr Afzal’s true legacy is his tireless organizational work. He holds the esteemed position of National President of the Indian Society of Wound Management, a role that underscores his commitment to public health. His calendar is a testament to his dedication to academic and professional development. From 2021 to 2024, he was the Organizing Chairman for numerous high-profile conferences and workshops, including WOUNDCON 2024 and UPASICON 2021. He also played a pivotal role in organizing the Golden Jubilee Alumni Meet 2024, showcasing his deep connection to the institution’s history.
He has a unique talent for creating and leading educational forums, from a live workshop on Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) to faculty development programs on project writing and assessment methodology for postgraduates. His extensive experience as an Organizing Secretary and Course-Coordinator for various workshops since 2005 further highlights his ability to bring together experts and facilitate the exchange of knowledge. Dr Afzal’s story is one of a surgeon who recognized that his calling extended far beyond the confines of a single hospital, a visionary leader whose work continues to shape the future of surgery and medicine in India.
Dr Afzal’s influence wasn’t limited to the surgical theater or the lecture hall; he was a key figure in shaping the academic and professional landscape of medicine. His role as an Editor and Reviewer for medical books and journals cemented his reputation as a trusted authority. He reviewed seminal texts like the Essentials of Surgery and the Intro to Surgical Instruments & Procedures for a major publisher. His work as an editor for conference souvenirs, such as UP NEUROCON 2001 and UP NEUROCON 2015, showcased his ability to organize and distill complex information for a broad audience.
The Architect of a Modern Department
Beyond his public accolades, Dr Afzal’s most profound impact can be seen in his corporate and administrative roles at J N Medical College. For three years, he served as the Chairperson of the Department of Surgery, guiding its strategic direction. As the Teacher in-charge of the Surgery Operation Theater complex for five years, he ensured smooth operations and a high standard of care. He also served as a Deputy Medical Superintendent for both purchasing and the OT complex, demonstrating his versatile administrative skills.
His commitment to education was evident in his roles as a member of the Medical Education Unit and the Curriculum Committee, where he helped shape the future of medical training. He served as the in-charge of Emergency Operation Theatres, a role demanding quick decisions and an unwavering calm under pressure. His experience as a Warden for five years and his roles as a Tabulator and Chief Scrutiny Officer for MBBS exams further underscored his dedication to every facet of the institution.
A Champion of the Community
Dr Afzal’s professional life was deeply intertwined with his commitment to community service. He worked as an Honorary Counselor for the IDB Scholarship Programme, helping to mentor and guide the next generation of scholars. He was actively involved in health camps in slums, bringing much-needed medical care directly to those who needed it most. He also attended workshops on Community Development, continually seeking new ways to serve beyond the confines of his profession. The story of Dr Afzal Anees is a powerful narrative of a man who rose to the pinnacle of his field, not just by excelling at his craft, but by tirelessly working to improve the systems, the people, and the communities around him.
“Our vision is to establish a state-of-the-art healthcare facility that remains affordable and accessible to all sections of society.”