Surgery of the Teacher, Hands of the Students: Dr. Basanta Pant Operated by His Own Students

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu — For senior neurosurgeon Prof. Dr. Basanta Pant, Jestha 29, 2082 (June 12, 2025) marked a historic turning point in his life. A complex surgery on his three-level herniated cervical disc was successfully completed at Annapurna Neurological Institute and Allied Sciences, where Dr. Pant himself has long served.

What made this surgery special wasn’t just its medical complexity—it was who performed it: the three neurosurgeons leading the operation, Dr. Sudan Dhakal, Dr. Sameer Acharya, and Dr. Janam Shrestha, were all former students of Dr. Pant.

“Yesterday was a historic day in my life,” Dr. Pant shared emotionally on social media. “Three renowned neurosurgeons, who also happen to be my former students, were the ones treating me. That moment was deeply emotional, and deeply historic.”

A Test for the Teacher, A Triumph for the Students

Neurosurgery is never simple, and surgery involving three herniated discs in the cervical spine is particularly challenging. Such a condition can cause numbness, pain, and loss of mobility—making surgery essential but risky. However, the operation was a success, thanks to the collaboration and dedication of the three former students.

“For all of us, yesterday felt like a major test,” Dr. Pant wrote. “And I can proudly say that we all passed.”

Treated by His Own Students: A Rare Satisfaction

Receiving treatment from one's own students is a rare experience—one that brought deep emotional satisfaction to Dr. Pant.

“To be treated in my own country, in my own institute, by my own students—this is the greatest joy of my life,” he expressed with heartfelt gratitude.

Gratitude to the Annapurna Family and His Own Family

Dr. Pant extended deep thanks to the entire Annapurna hospital team—anesthetists, nurses, and support staff—for their help in the successful surgery. He also offered special appreciation to his wife Vijaya and children Jun, Rachhita, Aakash, and Niharika for their constant support throughout his treatment journey.

A Journey Toward Recovery Begins

After the surgery, Dr. Pant shared that he is feeling much better.

“Today, I’m feeling very good,” he said. His full focus now will be on rest and recovery.

Dr. Basanta Pant has made significant contributions to Nepal's medical field over the years. On this day, he stood on the other side—as a patient—while the hands treating him were those of the very students he had once taught.

This is not just a story of a successful surgery. It is a profound reflection of the deep bond between teacher and student, the fruits of dedicated education, and a powerful reminder that world-class medical care is possible right here in Nepal.