AI Driven Advances in Gastroenterology & Hepatology

Dr. G. V. Rao is one of India’s foremost surgical gastroenterologists and Director of AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, a globally recognized institution for excellence in gastroenterology, advanced surgery, research, and education. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to medicine and surgical innovation, he was conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, by the Government of India. Internationally recognized for pioneering advances in minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery and therapeutic endoscopy, Dr. Rao has developed extensive expertise in complex gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, pancreatic, laparoscopic, and endoscopic procedures. Over his distinguished career, he has performed more than 12,000 complex gastrointestinal surgeries and nearly 16,000 advanced endoscopic procedures. Among his landmark contributions is pioneering Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES), popularly known as “No Scar Surgery,” including the world’s first Transoral Endoscopic Appendectomy. As a co-founder of AIG Hospitals, Dr. Rao has played a pivotal role in developing an integrated ecosystem encompassing world-class clinical care, research, innovation, and surgical education. A dedicated educator and mentor, he has trained more than 150 surgeons and has led numerous national and international conferences, live operative workshops, and masterclasses. Dr. Rao has held several prestigious leadership positions, including President of the Indian Association of Surgical Gastroenterology, International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, and Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy of India. He has authored more than 224 scientific publications and several textbook chapters and has collaborated with leading academic institutions to advance indigenous surgical technologies and innovative healthcare solutions. Beyond his clinical and academic accomplishments, Dr. Rao remains deeply committed to improving healthcare access. Through the Asian Healthcare Foundation, he has championed community health initiatives focused on early detection, treatment, education, and expanding access to high-quality healthcare in rural and underserved communities.