Born: 1932 (Madras, India)
Died: 2018
Biography:
T. S. Kanaka, also known as Thanjavur Santhanakrishna Kanaka or Tanjore Santhana Krishna Kanaka, was a prominent figure in the field of neurosurgery. Born on March 31, 1932, in Madras, India, she emerged as Asia’s first female neurosurgeon and one of the world’s first few female neurosurgeons. Her groundbreaking contributions and pioneering work in the field of functional neurosurgery revolutionized the medical world.
Kanaka grew up in a family of eight children, born to Santhanakrishna and Padmavathi. Her father held distinguished positions as the Deputy Director of Public Instruction and Principal of Madras Teachers College. From an early age, she was drawn to spiritual studies but ultimately decided to pursue a career in medicine. In December 1954, she completed her Bachelor of Medicine (MBBS) and went on to achieve her Master of Surgery (MS) in general surgery in March 1963. She continued her education, earning a Master of Surgery (MCh) in Neurosurgery in 1968 and a PhD in the Evaluation of Stereotactic Surgery in Cerebral Palsy in 1972. In 1983, she obtained her Diploma in Higher Education (DHEd).
Kanaka’s illustrious career began in the late 1960s when she became one of the early female neurosurgeons in the world. She was part of B. Ramamurthi’s surgical team that performed India’s first stereotaxic procedures in Madras. Kanaka’s groundbreaking research and valuable contributions to the field of stereotactic surgery earned her recognition and acclaim.
During the 1962-1963 Sino-Indian War, Kanaka served as a commissioned officer in the Indian Army. Despite her dedication to her country, she continued to pursue her passion for neurosurgery, teaching at the Madras Medical College, Epidemiological Research Centre, Adyar Cancer Institute, Hindu Mission Hospital, and other esteemed medical institutions.
Notably, Kanaka was the first neurosurgeon in India to perform chronic electrode implants in the brain. Her groundbreaking work also extended to deep brain stimulation, with her first procedure taking place in 1975. Kanaka’s relentless pursuit of innovation and her commitment to improving the lives of patients suffering from neurological disorders propelled her to the forefront of the field.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kanaka displayed remarkable compassion and worked tirelessly to provide healthcare to economically disadvantaged individuals. She collaborated with various organizations, including Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams TTD, to ensure adequate healthcare access for the marginalized population. Her dedication and selflessness earned her immense respect and admiration.
Kanaka’s invaluable contributions to the field of neurosurgery did not go unnoticed. She received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Madras Neuro Trust in recognition of her exceptional research and contributions. In 1996, she became the Honorary President of the Asian Women’s Neurosurgical Association, highlighting her role as a trailblazer for women in the medical field.
After retiring as a surgeon in 1990, Kanaka continued to offer consultancy services, refusing to retreat into private practice. Her passion for neurosurgery remained unwavering until her passing on November 14, 2018, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and inspiring a new generation of female neurosurgeons.
Awards:
– Lifetime Achievement Award from Madras Neuro Trust.