GUNTUR (AP), NOVEMBER 04, 2025: Senior Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Sumita Shankar has been awarded the Dr Tummala Ramabrahmam Award for Research Excellence (2025) by the Guntur Medical College Alumni of North America (GMCANA). She had earlier received the same award in 2004, making this her second recognition for outstanding research contributions.
Dr Shankar is a pioneer in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Andhra Pradesh, being the first female plastic surgeon to establish an aesthetic and wound care practice in Guntur in 2003. Her sustained commitment to innovation has led to pathbreaking contributions in Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) and Lymphoedema Management.
Notably, her extensive clinical research on the use of negative pressure dressings in chronic wounds led her to design and develop a novel compression sleeve system that significantly reduces limb swelling in inoperable lymphoedema cases. This invention, for which she holds a patent, stands as a testament to her translational research and patient-focused approach.
As Director of Research, Dr Shankar has consistently worked toward developing a vibrant research milieu across health faculties under the University, encouraging clinicians to translate bedside observations into scientific inquiry.
Expressing her gratitude, Dr Shankar said, “It is unfortunate that most State Governments do not give due recognition to the efforts made by clinicians in the field of research. I am deeply grateful that organisations like GMCANA continue to acknowledge and celebrate such work. I sincerely hope our State adopts similar recognition models to encourage clinical innovation and research.”
Dr Shankar has also been the recipient of the Black Buck Pioneer Research Award (2024) for her contributions to advanced wound management.
The Dr Tummala Ramabrahmam Award is presented annually by GMCANA to honour excellence in original medical research and its contribution to patient care. Dr Shankar’s journey — from a determined young surgeon to a researcher, teacher, and inventor — continues to inspire younger colleagues to blend science, empathy, and innovation in healing.
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