Image-guided surgery for aneurysms became a clinical reality through the work of Basant Kumar Misra, who stands as the first neurosurgeon globally to master the technique. Based in India, he has expanded the boundaries of cranial and spinal intervention, pioneering numerous surgical procedures while simultaneously shaping the institutional framework of neurological training across the South Asian region.
Clinical Innovations
Misra achieved several medical milestones within India and South Asia. He performed the region’s first gamma knife radiosurgery and introduced endoscopic spinal techniques to his domestic practice. His surgical portfolio also includes the first EC-IC bypass procedure for Moyamoya disease in India and the implementation of awake craniotomy. These contributions are complemented by his ongoing collaboration with Dr. B. Ravi at IIT Bombay, where he participates in the development of new biomedical devices through the Biomedical Engineering and Technology incubation Centre.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Academic and Institutional Leadership
The surgeon maintains a significant presence in global neurosurgical governance. He currently serves as the Honorary President of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies and the Asian Australasian Society of Neurological Surgeons. His previous leadership roles include presiding over the Neurological Society of India and chairing the WFNS Foundation. He has also held teaching positions at institutions including Harvard Medical School and the Australian School of Advanced Medicine.
Educational Initiatives and Philanthropy
Beyond the operating theatre, Misra has focused on developing medical infrastructure. At Hinduja Hospital, he established a six-year DrNB course for MBBS graduates and a three-month postgraduate fellowship program. His charitable efforts are equally extensive; he operates a weekly free clinic in Mahim and founded the Baidyanath Neurosurgery Charitable Trust to sponsor international training for neurosurgeons. Additionally, he co-founded the Konark Cancer Foundation, which assists patients at Tata Memorial Hospital with financial and logistical support.
Fast facts
- Born: 1953, Bhubaneswar
- Specialty: Neurosurgery
- Highest Honour: Dr. B. C. Roy Award (2018)
- Notable Education: All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi
- Languages: Hindi, Marathi, English, Odia, Malayalam
- Primary Affiliation: Hinduja Hospitals, Mumbai
Questions readers ask
What is Misra's specific contribution to aneurysm surgery?
He is recognized as the first neurosurgeon in the world to perform image-guided surgery for aneurysms.
Does he provide charitable medical care?
Yes, he conducts a weekly free clinic at Hinduja Hospital and co-founded the Konark Cancer Foundation to support cancer patients with financial and logistical aid.
