The unmistakable, mercurial scent of blood permeated the air as surgeons, armed with only rudimentary surgical tools, faced their daunting tasks. Barbers, whose skilled hands deftly wielded blades, were among the first practitioners of surgery. Their roles extended beyond simple grooming; these barbers transitioned into medical caregivers, extracting teeth and amputating limbs all while forcibly restraining patients who cried out in excruciating pain, reflecting the harrowing reality of early surgical practices. The introduction of anaesthesia revolutionized this landscape, changing everything we knew about surgical procedures.
Today, surgery is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, transcending its utilitarian roots to be celebrated as an art form. The surgeon, with their adept and steady hands, earns comparisons to a composer, orchestrating intricate procedures that require both skill and artistry.
For Dr. Ravi Maharaj, the esteemed head of the Department of Clinical Surgical Sciences at The University of the West Indies and the university examiner for the final MBBS examination in surgery, the calling of surgery embodies nobility. His unwavering passion for this specialized field and dedication to teaching culminated in the release of his first book, *Textbook of Surgery for Medical Students*, marking a significant contribution to the medical community.
The *Textbook of Surgery for Medical Students* stands out as a pioneering resource in the West Indies, specifically addressing diseases prevalent among Caribbean patients. Each chapter is meticulously organized with key points highlighted, along with comprehensive summaries to facilitate knowledge retention for students. Additionally, algorithmic flow charts offer clarity in the clinical management of various patient conditions. To reinforce learning, each chapter concludes with sample multiple choice questions, complete with detailed explanations of the correct answers.
“I also collaborated with experts from all the regional campuses of UWI, and engaged local specialists to ensure that common regional diseases were thoroughly addressed in our standardized teaching. Furthermore, I sought input from authors based in India and Nigeria to ensure our diverse diaspora is aptly represented,” said Maharaj.
After completing his studies at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Maharaj earned the prestigious Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of England. He subsequently undertook specialized fellowship training in surgical oncology and hepatopancreatobiliary surgery in Mumbai, India, honing his skills in complex surgical procedures.
Maharaj has dedicated more than two decades to the University of the West Indies, where he currently serves as a senior lecturer in surgery. Last year, inspired by his commitment to medical education, Maharaj began drafting the *Textbook of Surgery for Medical Students*, an endeavor wholeheartedly supported by his wife. In mid-2023, he mapped out the book’s format and began the demanding process of collaborating with 107 international co-authors—renowned experts in their respective fields.
In a poignant “full circle moment,” more than three decades after their initial meeting, Maharaj co-authored Chapter One of the textbook with R. Vijay Naraynsingh, whom he regards as his mentor and guiding light. A year and a half after its initial conceptualization, the textbook finally emerged into the world.
Dr. Maharaj emphasizes that the *Textbook of Surgery for Medical Students* is not intended as a money-making venture; it embodies a mission of giving back to the field of surgery. “The intention of the textbook was never for commerce,” Maharaj clarified. “I have always been fortunate to learn from remarkable mentors throughout my career. Outstanding surgeons like David Josa, Deneash Ariyanayagam, Dilip Dan, Vijay Naraynsingh, and Parul Shukla have significantly influenced my path.” His commitment to educational accessibility is evident in his distribution of the e-book, which he shares freely with aspiring doctors, alongside providing hard copies to his clinical students at no charge.
The book is also available for purchase on platforms like Amazon Kindle and Digital Canopi, ensuring international accessibility for medical students eager to enhance their knowledge. With an impressive 35 years of experience in his field, Maharaj remains committed to not gatekeeping educational resources that empower medical students to confront a diverse array of patient needs. He envisions a future where his department at UWI contributes more textbooks to the medical literature.
“The Department of Clinical Surgical Sciences is responsible for 11 postgraduate programmes, and we will strive to publish textbooks across all these specialties,” Maharaj asserted. “As academics, it is imperative to document our work for the benefit of future generations.”
**Interview with Dr. Ravi Maharaj: A Journey Through Surgery and Education**
*Editor’s Note: In this exclusive interview, we speak with Dr. Ravi Maharaj, the esteemed head of the Department of Clinical Surgical Sciences at The University of the West Indies, about his new textbook, the evolution of surgical practices, and his vision for medical education in the Caribbean.*
**Editor:** Dr. Maharaj, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Your new book, *Textbook of Surgery for Medical Students*, is making waves in medical education. Can you share what inspired you to write this textbook, especially one so focused on addressing diseases prevalent in the Caribbean?
**Dr. Maharaj:** Thank you for having me. My inspiration came from my years of experience teaching and seeing a gap in the resources available for medical students in the Caribbean. I wanted to create a comprehensive guide that not only addresses common regional diseases but also complements the rigorous education our students receive. Collaborating with experts from around the region and beyond helped to ensure we’re providing relevant and practical knowledge.
**Editor:** It’s fascinating to hear about the collaborative effort behind the book. You mentioned engaging local specialists and scholars from countries like India and Nigeria. How did their input shape the content of the textbook?
**Dr. Maharaj:** Their insights were invaluable. We wanted to create a resource that was not only relevant to our context but also reflective of the diverse patient profiles in our communities. By including perspectives from different regions, we were able to cover a wider range of conditions and treatments, making the textbook a more holistic resource for students.
**Editor:** Speaking of the evolution of surgical practices, how do you view the transition from the rudimentary methods of the past, such as those performed by barbers, to the sophisticated techniques used in modern surgery today?
**Dr. Maharaj:** It’s indeed a remarkable journey. Surgery has evolved from a brutal profession to an intricate art form, blending technique with compassion. The introduction of anesthesia was a game changer, and today’s surgeons are not just technicians but also artists who perform complex operations with precision and care. I believe that the art of surgery is something that we want to instill in our students alongside the science.
**Editor:** In your opinion, what role does teaching and mentorship play in nurturing the next generation of surgeons?
**Dr. Maharaj:** Teaching and mentorship are critical. Surgery is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about developing the skills and values that define a good surgeon. We have a responsibility to guide our students, not only in technical proficiency but also in fostering empathy and ethical practice. I strive to be not just an educator but also a mentor, helping shape their professional identities.
**Editor:** As someone who has dedicated more than two decades to medical education, what do you consider as your most significant achievement in your career thus far?
**Dr. Maharaj:** I would say the release of this textbook is a significant milestone for me, but beyond that, I take pride in shaping young minds and seeing my students succeed in their careers. Witnessing their growth and contributions to the field of medicine is incredibly rewarding.
**Editor:** what message do you hope your textbook conveys to medical students, both in the Caribbean and globally?
**Dr. Maharaj:** I hope it conveys that surgery is an evolving discipline that requires both scientific knowledge and human compassion. I want students to feel equipped and confident in their abilities, and to understand the importance of serving their communities with the highest level of care. Our students hold the future of healthcare in their hands, and I believe we must empower them to make a difference.
*Editor’s Note: Dr. Maharaj’s dedication to surgery and education sets a benchmark for aspiring medical professionals, particularly in underserved regions. His commitment to addressing local diseases through thoughtful collaboration exemplifies the transformative power of medical education.*
