Department of Pain & Palliative Sciences
Relief. Recovery. Renewed Living
Advanced, compassionate pain care tailored to your needs.
At IIGU Hospitals, our Department of Pain & Palliative Sciences provides comprehensive care for a wide range of conditions — from chronic back pain and neuropathic disorders to cancer-related pain and complex musculoskeletal conditions.
Led by Dr. Shubha Padakannaya, our expert team of pain specialists, anaesthesiologists, palliative care physicians, and physiotherapists ensures precise diagnosis and advanced treatment with a compassionate approach. Using state-of-the-art tools such as fluoroscopy-guided interventions, ultrasound imaging, nerve-mapping diagnostics, and specialized tests, we enable early, accurate detection and treatment.
We specialize in minimally invasive procedures, including radiofrequency ablation, nerve blocks, epidural injections, and regenerative therapies — ensuring faster recovery and greater comfort.
At IIGU, we go beyond treatment — offering long-term care and support. Whether it’s routine pain management, advanced interventional procedures, or complex palliative care, we’re your trusted partner every step of the way.
Pain & Palliative Sciences At a Glance Expertise You Can Trust
15,000+ GI & HPB procedures performed annually
95% patient satisfaction in digestive health care
85% of surgeries are minimally invasive or day-care
Patients from 20+ states across India trust our care
Our Specialisations
Comprehensive Care for Complex Pain Needs
Our Team
Your Care is in Expert Hands
Dr. Vikram J Rao
Founder, Medical Director
Director – Gastrointestinal Sciences
MBBS, MS, DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology – KEM, Mumbai), FMAS, FIAGES, FACRSI, Hospital Management (IIMBx)
Dr. Shubha Padakannaya
Co-Founder, Director
Director – Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine
MBBS, MD, IDCCM (Tata Memorial Hospital), FIAPM, FIPM (Interventional Pain Medicine)
Dr. Dharmaprakash NK
Co-Founder, Director
Director – Urology & Kidney Sciences
MBBS, MS, MCh (Urology)
Dr. Raghuram ATS
Co-Founder, Director
Director – Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine
MBBS, MD (Anaesthesia), IDCCM, IFCCM (Critical Care Medicine)
Dr. Jayalakshmi K
Consultant - Paediatric Gastroenterologist
MBBS, MD/DNB (Paediatrics), PDCC (Paediatric Gastroenterology)
Dr. Vishnu Priya P
Rehabilitation Specialist - Pelvic Health
BPT, MPT (OBG), MIAP
Simran Khanam
Consultant Dietitian
B.Sc., M.Sc. (Dietetics and Applied Nutrition)
Dr. Shruthi Rai P
Lab Director
MBBS, MD, MBA, (PhD)
Consultant Biochemist
Dr. Vikram J Rao
Founder, Managing Director
Dr. Dharmaprakash NK
Co-Founder, Director
Dr. Shubha Padakannaya
Co-Founder, Director
Dr. Raghuram ATS
Co-Founder, Director
Dr. Jayalakshmi K
Consultant - Paediatric Gastroenterologist
Dr. Vishnu Priya P
Rehabilitation Specialist - Pelvic Health
Simran Khanam
Consultant Dietitian
Dr. Shruthi Rai P
Lab Director
Advanced Surgical Care
Advanced Procedures for Safer, Faster Recovery
Our GI Surgery Centre specialises in safe, precise, and patient-friendly surgical care — focusing on faster recovery and minimal hospital stay.
- Day-Care Surgeries for select procedures
- Minimally Invasive Techniques for less pain and quicker recovery
- Advanced Technology like high-definition Laparoscopy and Laser Technology
Technology You Can Trust
Your Care is in Expert Hands
A minimally invasive procedure that offers clear, detailed views of the digestive tract, enabling accurate diagnosis
A minimally invasive procedure that offers clear, detailed views of the digestive tract, enabling accurate diagnosis
A minimally invasive procedure that offers clear, detailed views of the digestive tract, enabling accurate diagnosis
A minimally invasive procedure that offers clear, detailed views of the digestive tract, enabling accurate diagnosis
Prevention is the first step towards a healthy digestive system. Many gastrointestinal conditions, including ulcers, polyps, and early-stage cancers, show minimal or no symptoms in the initial stages. Regular health checkups help detect these conditions early, ensuring timely treatment and better outcomes.
- Advanced screening tools like endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging.
- Early detection of acid reflux, ulcers, polyps, IBD, liver disorders, and more.
- Personalised risk assessments based on age, family history, and lifestyle.
Up to 60% of serious digestive diseases can be prevented or treated effectively if caught early.
Surgery and medication are not always the first solution. Our Nutrition & Wellness services focus on lifestyle, diet, and non-invasive interventions to manage or even reverse certain GI conditions before they require medical or surgical care.
- Address root causes through diet and lifestyle
- Reduce the risk of disease progression
- Improve digestive comfort, energy, and overall health
Your Journey to better Health starts here!
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Pain & Palliative Sciences FAQs
When should I see a pain specialist?
If your pain lasts longer than expected, affects sleep or mobility, or doesn’t respond to standard treatment, consult a pain physician for evaluation.
Are nerve-block procedures safe?
Yes. All procedures are performed under image guidance using sterile techniques to ensure safety and precision.
Is palliative care only for terminal illness?
No. Palliative care focuses on improving comfort and quality of life at any stage of a serious illness, not only end-of-life situations.
What kinds of pain can be treated?
We treat a full spectrum of pain — acute, chronic, neuropathic, post-surgical, cancer-related, and musculoskeletal — with both medical and interventional options.
Do I need a referral to visit the pain clinic?
No referral is required. You can directly book an appointment for evaluation.
What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?
RFA is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to deactivate specific nerves, providing long-term pain relief for conditions like facet joint pain, knee arthritis, and nerve-related pain.
How long does relief from a nerve block last?
Depending on the type of block and the condition being treated, relief can last from weeks to months. Some procedures like radiofrequency ablation can provide relief for 6-12 months or longer.
What is PRP therapy?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy uses your own blood platelets to promote healing in damaged joints, ligaments, and tendons. It’s a regenerative treatment option for arthritis, tendon injuries, and chronic joint pain.