Ranganadha Rao
About

Dr. A. Ranganadha Rao

Dr. A. Ranganadha Rao (1930–2014) was a distinguished Indian urologist recognized as the first qualified urologist from Andhra Pradesh and the first to perform a kidney transplantation in the state. His career laid the foundation for modern urology in southern India, blending clinical excellence, academic leadership, and institutional vision.

Early Life and Education

Born on 11 April 1930 in Pithapuram, Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Ranganadha Rao completed his MBBS from Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam, in 1952. During his medical training, he received the Anderson Gold Medal in Anatomy and the Dr. Bhaskar Menon Prize in Pathology — early indicators of his academic distinction.

He joined the Andhra Pradesh Government Health Services in 1956 and later pursued an M.S. in General Surgery (1962) from the same institution. His interest in surgical innovation led him to obtain an M.Ch. in Urology from the Christian Medical College, Vellore, in 1969 — a rare qualification at the time.

EXPERIENCE

Academic and Clinical Contributions

In 1970, Dr. Ranganadha Rao joined Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, as a Professor of Urology and established the Department of Urology, the first in Andhra Pradesh. Under his leadership, the department evolved into a premier center for urological training and research.

By 1980, he had initiated a postgraduate program in Urology at Osmania, fostering the development of numerous specialists who went on to serve across India and abroad.

In 1982, his team achieved a major medical milestone by performing the first successful kidney transplantation in Andhra Pradesh at Osmania General Hospital — a landmark in the state’s medical history.

Professional Leadership

Dr. Ranganadha Rao played an active role in the Urological Society of India (USI), contributing to its growth between 1982 and 1989. His leadership and advocacy helped advance urology as a recognized super-specialty in India.

In 1994, he co-founded the Hyderabad Institute of Urology, which became a referral and training center known for its emphasis on ethical practice and surgical excellence.

HONORS & ORATIONS
Honours and Orations

Throughout his career, Dr. Ranganadha Rao was invited to deliver several prestigious orations, including:

  • Dr. H. S. Bhat Oration on Endourology (1996)

  • Dr. Yella Prasad Memorial Oration (1985)

  • Dr. Hemadri Sarcar Memorial Oration (1990)

  • Dr. Bhaskar Reddy Endowment Oration (1996)

In 2009, Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences awarded him an Honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) in recognition of his contributions to medical education and clinical practice.

LEGACY
LEGACY

Dr. Ranganadha Rao’s influence extends beyond his surgical accomplishments. He was a respected educator, mentor, and administrator whose emphasis on discipline, ethics, and patient care continues to inspire generations of medical professionals.

He passed away on 18 December 2014, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a pioneer of Indian urology and a foundational figure in Andhra Pradesh’s medical community.