Thoracic Oncology

Cancers of the chest—such as lung cancer, esophageal cancer, mediastinal tumors, and chest wall sarcomas—are among the most complex conditions in oncology. These cancers often affect vital structures and require highly specialized surgical expertise.

Dr. Shouptik Basu leads the Thoracic Oncology Unit at Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre and Research Institute (SGCCRI), Thakurpukur, where he specializes in thoracic oncology and reconstructive cancer surgery. A trained surgical oncologist from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Dr. Basu brings advanced expertise and a patient-centric philosophy to the management of complex thoracic malignancies.

His clinical work focuses on the treatment of cancers involving the lung, esophagus, mediastinum, and chest wall, with an emphasis on achieving optimal oncologic outcomes while preserving form and function through advanced reconstructive techniques. Under his leadership, the Thoracic Oncology Unit at SGCCRI follows a multidisciplinary approach, integrating surgery, medical oncology, radiation therapy, radiology, and pathology to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based cancer care.

Dr. Basu is particularly committed to advancing minimally invasive and video-assisted thoracic surgical (VATS) techniques that help reduce postoperative pain and recovery time without compromising precision or safety. Beyond his surgical practice, he is actively involved in clinical research, innovation, and academic mentorship, fostering growth in the evolving field of thoracic oncology.

Redefining Lung Cancer Surgery: Precision Meets Compassion

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally. Yet, with early detection and advanced surgical techniques, outcomes can be significantly improved. Dr. Basu is a strong advocate for lung-sparing surgeries such as:

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)
Anatomical Segmentectomy and Lobectomy with Mediastinal Lymphadenectomy
Sleeve Resections
Pneumonectomy, when required for oncological clearance

A Multidisciplinary Model of Thoracic Cancer Care

Under Dr. Basu’s leadership, the Thoracic Oncology Unit at Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre functions as a comprehensive hub for thoracic malignancies. The team includes:

Medical and Radiation Oncologists
Pulmonologists and Thoracic Radiologists
ICU and Pain Management Experts
Dietitians, Physiotherapists, and Palliative Care Teams

Every case is discussed in tumor board meetings to personalize treatment plans. From biopsy to bronchoscopy, from PET-CT to surgery and beyond, the entire spectrum of thoracic oncology care is available under one roof.

A Pioneer in Pleural Surface Malignancies: HITHOC

Dr. Shouptik Basu was part of the first team in India to perform Hyperthermic Mesothelioma: Advancing Care for a Rare Thoracic Cancer

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer of the pleura, most commonly associated with asbestos exposure. Due to its diffuse growth within the thoracic cavity, surgical treatment is highly specialized and often limited to selected patients. Dr. Basu is among the few oncologic surgeons in Eastern India to offer Hyperthermic Intrathoracic Chemotherapy (HITHOC)—a technique that combines surgical cytoreduction with heated chemotherapy delivered directly into the chest cavity. As part of the first team in Eastern India to pioneer HITHOC. Dr. Basu continues to push the boundaries of mesothelioma care, offering new hope in a traditionally difficult-to-treat disease.

Intrathoracic Chemotherapy (HITHOC) in a Government Sector Hospital (AIIMS)—a novel approach for select cases of pleural-based malignancies, such as mesothelioma or advanced lung cancer with pleural involvement.
This breakthrough was accomplished representing a major advancement in thoracic cancer care and offering new hope for patients with advanced intrathoracic disease.

Mediastinal Tumors: Expertise Where It Matters Most

Tumors of the mediastinum—such as thymomas, germ cell tumors, lymphomas, and neurogenic tumors—demand a highly nuanced surgical approach due to their proximity to the heart, major vessels, and airway.

Dr. Basu is one of the few surgical oncologists trained in the safe and complete resection of complex mediastinal masses. He routinely performs:

Extended Thymectomy for Myasthenia Gravis and Thymomas
Vascular and Nerve-Sparing Tumor Resections
Combined Resections Involving the Lung or Pericardium

His goal is always to balance complete oncological clearance with maximum preservation of function and safety.

Chest Wall Reconstruction: Rebuilding Strength and Structure

When tumors invade the chest wall—be it from sarcoma, breast cancer recurrence, or lung cancer extension—surgical management becomes a challenge of both form and function.

Dr. Basu specializes in complex chest wall resections followed by functional reconstruction using:

Titanium Plates and Mesh Prostheses
Muscle Flaps (Latissimus Dorsi, Pectoralis Major)
Composite Reconstruction with Plastic Surgery Teams

These procedures not only help in restoring structural integrity but also in preserving respiratory mechanics and chest contour.

Esophageal Cancer: A High-Stakes Cancer Needing Specialized Care

Surgery for esophageal cancer is among the most complex procedures in gastrointestinal oncology, requiring careful coordination and advanced skill. Dr. Basu is experienced in performing:

Transthoracic and Transhiatal Esophagectomy
Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy (MIE)
Reconstruction using Gastric Pull-Up or Colonic Interposition

These surgeries not only remove the tumor but also focus on preserving swallowing function and post-operative nutrition, ensuring quality of life for patients post-recovery.

Dr. Shouptik Basu’s Vision: Healing the Chest, Restoring Lives

With his training from AIIMS and further expertise in minimally invasive, robotic-assisted, and reconstructive thoracic surgeries, Dr. Basu represents the next generation of oncologic surgeons committed to both cure and quality of life.

He believes that chest cancer surgery is not just about removing the disease—it is about restoring breath, dignity, and the will to live fully.

For patients facing the daunting diagnosis of thoracic cancers, Dr. Shouptik Basu offers not just surgical excellence but hope, empathy, and a pathway back to life.